FROM  THE  LIBRARY  OF 
REV.   LOUIS    FITZGERALD    BENSON.  D.  D. 

BEQUEATHED   BY  HIM  TO 

THE   LIBRARY  OF 

PRINCETON  THEOLOGICAL  SEMINARY 


ta 


ptosis 

Sen 


i 


OLNEY 


IN 


THREE  BOOKS: 


iiooK  i.  On  select 
Texts  of  Scripture. 

Book  ii.  On  occasi- 
onal Subjects- 


Book  hi.  On  the  Pro- 
gress and  changes  of 
the  Spiritual  Life. 


BY  THE 

REV.  JOHN  NEWTON, 

RECTOR  OF  ST.  MARY,  WOOLNOTH,  LONDON 


-Cantabitis,  Arcades,  inquit, 


Montibus  h?ec  vestris  :  soli  cantare  periti 

Arcades.     O  mihi  turn  quam  molliter  ossa  quiescant 

Yestra  meos  olim  si  fistula  dicat  amores  ! 

Virgil.  Eel.  x.  ', 

And  they  sung  as  it  were  a  new  song  before  the  throne  ; 
and  no  man  could  learn  that  song,  but  the  redeemed 
from  the  earth.  Rev.  xiv.  3. 

As  sorrowful. ...yet  always  rejoicing.         2  Cor.  vi.  10. 


PHILADELPHIA: 

Printed  by  and  for  W.  W.  Woodward,  No,  52.  Soutk 
Second  corner  of  Chesnut  Streets 


PREFACE. 


COPIES  of  a  few  of  these   Hymns  have  al- 
ready appeared  in  periodical  publications, 
and  in  some  recent  collections.     I  have  observed 
one  or    two   of  them   attributed  to  persons  who 
certainly  had  no  concern  in  them,  but  as  trans- 
cribers.    All   that   have  been  at  different  times 
parted   with  in   manuscript  are  included  in  the 
present  volume  ;  and  (if  the  information  were  of 
any  great  importance)  the  public  may  be  assur- 
ed  that  the   whole   number   were   composed  by 
two  persons  only.  The  original  design  would  not 
admit  of  any  other  association.    A  desire  of  pro- 
moting the  faith  and   comfort  of  sincere  Chris- 
tians, though  the  principal,  was  not  the  only  mo- 
tive of  this  undertaking.     It  was  likewise  intend- 
ed as  a  monument,    to  perpetuate   the    remem- 
brance of  an  intimate  and  endeared   friendship. 
With  this  pleasing  view  I  entered  upon  my  part, 
which  would   have   been  smaller   than  it  is,  and 
the  book  would  have  appeared  much  sooner,  and 
in  a  very  different  form,  if  the  wise,  though  mys- 
terious providence  of  God,  had  not  seen  fit  to 
cross  my    wishes.     We  had   not  proceeded    far 
upon  our   proposed  plan,  before  my  dear  friend 
was  prevented  by  a  long  and  afflicting  indisposi- 
tion, from    affording  me  any  farther  assistance* 
My  grief  and  disappointment  were  great ;  I  hung 
my  harp    upon  the   willows,   and  for    some  time 
thought   myself  determined  to  proceed   no  far- 
ther without  him.     Yet  my  mind  was  afterwatds 
led  to  resume    the  service.     My  progress   in  it, 
amidst  a  variety  of  other  engagements,  has  been 
slow,  yet  in   the  course  of  years,  the  hymns  a- 
mounted  to   a   considerable   number :    And  my 
deference  to  the  judgment  and  desires  of  others, 
has  at  length    overcome   the    reluctance  I  long 
felt  to  see  them  in  print,  while  I  had  so  few  of; 


iv  PREFACE. 

my  friend's  hymns  to  insert  in  the  collection. 
Though  it  is  possible  a  good  judge  of  compo- 
sition might  be  able  to  distinguish  those  which 
are  his,  I  have  thought  it  proper  to  preclude  a 
misapplication,  by  prefixing  the  letter  (c)  to  them. 
Tor  the  rest  I  must  be  responsible. 

There  is  a  style  and  manner  suited  to  the 
composition  of  hymns,  which  may  be  more  suc- 
cessfully, or  at  least  more  easily  attained  by  a 
versifier,  than  by  a  poet,  They  should  be  Hymns, 
not  Odes,  if  designed  for  public  worship,  and  for 
the  use  of  plain  people.  Perspicuity,  simplicity, 
and  ease,  should  be  chiefly  attended  to  :  and  the 
imagery  and  colouring  of  poetry,  if  admitted  at 
all,  should  be  indulged  very  sparingly,  and  with 
great  judgment.  The  late  Dr.  Watts,  many  of 
whose  hymns  are  admirable  patterns  in  this  spe- 
cies of  writing,  might  as  a  poet,  have  a  right  to 
say,  that  it  cost  him  some  labour  to  restrain  his 
fire,  and  to  accommodate  himself  to  the  capacity 
of  common  readers.  But  it  would  not  become- 
me  to  make  such  a  declaration.  It  behoved  me 
to  do  my  best.  But  though  I  would  not  offend 
readers  of  taste  by  a  wilful  coarseness  and  ne- 
gligence. I  do  not  write  professedly  for  them. 
If  the  Lord,  whom  I  serve,  has  been  pleased  to 
favour  me  with  that  mediocrity  of  talent,  which 
may  qualify  me  for  usefulness  to  the  weak  anc4 
the  poor  of  his  flock,  without  quite  disgusting 
persons  of  superior  discernment,  I  have  reason 
to  be  satisfied. 

As  the  workings  of  the  heart  of  man,andofthe  Spi- 
rit of  God  are  in  general  t he  same  in  all  who  are  the 
subjects  of  grace,  I  hopemost  of  these  hymns,  being 
the  fruit  and  expression  of  my  own  experience,  will 
coincide  with  the  views  of  real  Christians  of  all 
denominations.  But  I  cannot  expect  that  every 
sentiment  I  have  advanced  will  be  universally 
approved.  However,  I  am  not  conscious  of  hav- 
ing written  a  single  line  with  an  intention,  either 
to  flatter,  or  to  offend  any  party  or  person  upon 
earth.     I  have   simply   declared  my  own  views 


PREFACE.  v 

and  feelings,  as  I  might  have  done  if  I  had  com- 
posed hymns  in  some  of  the  newly  discovered 
islands  in  the  South  Sea,  where  no  person  had 
any  knowledge  of  the  name  of  Jesus.,  but  my- 
self. I  am  a  friend  oi  peace,  and  being  deeply 
convinced  that  no  one  can  profitably  understand 
the  great  truths  and  doctrines  of  the  gospel,  any 
farther  than  he  is  taught  of  God,  I  have  not  a 
wish  to  obtrude  my  own  tenets  upon  others,  in 
a  way  of  controversy  : — yet  I  do  not  think  my- 
self bound  to  conceal  them.  Many  gracious  per- 
sons, (for  many  such  I  am  persuaded  there  are) 
who  differ  from  me,  more  or  less,  in  those  points 
which  are  called  Calvinistic  appear  desirous  that 
the  Calvinists  should,  for  their  sakes.  studiously 
avoid  every  expression  which  they  cannot  ap- 
prove. Yet  few  of  them,  I  believe,  impose  a 
like  restraint  upon  themselves,  but  think  the  im- 
portance of  what  they  deem  to  be  truth,  justifies 
them  in  speaking  their  sentiments  plainly,  and 
strongly.  May  I  not  plead  for  an  equal  liberty  ? 
The  views  I  have  received  of  the  doctrines  of 
grace  are  essential  to  my  peace,  I  could  not  live 
comfortably  a  day  or  an  -hour  without  them.  I 
likewise  believe,  yea,  so  far  as  my  poor  attain- 
ments warrant  me  to  speak,  I  know  them  to  be 
friendly  to  holiness,  and  to  have  a  direct  influ- 
ence in  producing  and  maintaining  a  gospel  con- 
versation, and  therefore  I  must  not  be  ashamed 
of  them. 

The  Hymns  are  distributed  into  three  Books. 
In  the  first  I  have  classed  those  which  are  formed 
upon  select  passages  of  Scripture,  and  placed 
them  in  the  order  of  the  Books  of  the  Old  and 
New  Testaments.  The.  second  contains  occa- 
sional hymps  suited  to  particular  seasons,  or  sug- 
gested by  particular  events  or  subjects.  The 
third  Book  is  miscellaneous,  comprising  a  varie- 
ty of  subjects  relative  to  a  life  of  faith  in  the  Son 
of  God,  which  have  no  express  reference  either 
to  a  single  text  of  scripture,  or  any  determinate 
a.  2 


ri  PREFACE. 

season  or  incident.  These  are  farther  subdivided 
into  distinct  heads.  This  arrangement  is  not 
so  accurate  but  that  several  of  the  hymns  might 
have  been  differently  disposed.  Some  attention 
to  method  may  be  found  convenient,  though  a 
logical  exactness  was  hardly  practicable.  As 
some  subjects  in  the  several  books  are  nearly  co- 
incident, I  have,  under  the  divisions  in  the  third 
Book,  pointed  out  those  which  are  similar  in  the 
two  former.  And  I  have  likewise  here  and  there 
in  the  first  and  second,  made  reference  to  hymns 
of  a  like  import  in  the  third. 

This  publication,  which,  with  my  humble  pray- 
er to  the  Lord  for  his  blessing  upon  it,  I  offer 
to  the  service  and  acceptance  of  all  who  love  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sincerity,  of  every  name 
and  in  every  place,  into  whose  hands  it  may  come. 
I  more  particularly  dedicate  to  my  dear  friends 
in  the  parish  and  neighbourhood  of  Olney,  for 
whose  use  the  hymns  were  originally  composed  : 
as  a  testimony  of  the  sincere  love  I  bear  them, 
and  as  a  token  of  my  gratitude  to  the  Lord,  and 
to  them  for  the  comfort  and  satisfaction  with 
which  the  discharge  of  my  ministry  among  them 
has  been  attended. 

The  hour  is  approaching,  and  at  my  time  of 
life,  cannot  be  very  distant,  when  my  heart,  my 
pen  and  my  tongue  will  no  longer  be  able  to 
move  in  their  service.  But  I  trust,  while  my 
heart  continues  to  beat,  it  will  feel  a  warm  desire 
for  the  prosperity  of  their  souls  ;  and  while  my 
hand  can  write,  and  my  tongue  speak,  it  will  be 
the  business  and  pleasure  of  my  life,  to  aim  at 
promoting  their  growth  and  establishment  in  the 
grace  of  our  God  and  Saviour.  To  this  precious 
grace  I  commend  them,  and  earnestly  entreat 
them,  and  all  who  love  his  name,  to  strive 
mightily  with  his  prayers  to  God  tor  me,  that  I 
may  be  preserved  faithful  to  the  end,  and  ena- 
bled at  last  to  finish  my  course  with  joy. 

JOHN  NEWTON* 
Oloey,  Buck*,  Feb.  15,  1779. 


OLNEY  HYMNS,  &c. 


BOOK  I. 

ON 

SELECT  PASSAGES  OF  SCRIP? USE. 


GENESIS. 
HYMN  I.     ADAM  Chap.  iii. 

1  /^\N  man,  in  his  own  image  made, 
VJ'    How  much  did  God  bestow  ? 
The  whole  creation  homage  paid, 

And  own'd  him  Lord  below  ! 

2  He  dwelt  in  Eden's  garden,  stor'd 

With  sweets  for  ev'ry  sense; 
And  there  with  his  descending  Lord, 
He  walk'd  in  confidence. 

3  But  oh  !  by  sin  how  quickly  chang'd  ! 

His  honour  forfeited, 
His  heart  from  God  and  truth,  estrang'd. 
His  conscience  fill'd  with  dread ! 

4  Now  from  his  Maker's  voice  he  flees, 

Which  was  before  his  joy ; 
And  thinks  to  hide  amidst  the  treess 
From  an  all-seeing  eye. 

5  Compell'd  to  answer  to  his  name  ; 

With  stubbornness  and  pride 
He  cast  on  God  himself  the  blame, 
Nor  once  for  mercy  cry'd. 


8  GENESIS.  Bk.  I. 

6  But  grace,  unask'd,  his  heart   subdu'd 

And  all  his  guilt  forgave ; 
By  faith  the  promis'd  seed  he  view'd, 
And  felt  the  pow'r  to  save. 

7  Thus  we  ourselves  would  justify, 

Though  we  the  law  transgress; 
Like  him,  unable  to  deny, 
Unwilling  to  confess. 

8  But  when  by  faith  the  sinner  sees 

A  pardon  bought  with  blood, 
Then  he  forsakes  his  foolish  pleas, 
And  gladly  turns  to  God. 

II.  CAIN  and  ABEL.    Chap.  iv.  3—8. 
i    T  y*  THEN  Adam  fell  he  quickly  lost 

V  V     God's  image  which  he  once  possess'd, 
See  All  our  nature  since  could  boast 
In  Cain,  his  first-born  son  express'd  ! 

2  The  Sacrifice  the  Lord  ordain'd 
In  type  of  the  Redeemer's  blood, 
Self-righteous  reasoning  Cain  disdain'd, 
And  thought  his  own  first-fruits  as  good. 

3  Yet  rage  and  envy  fill'd  his  mind, 
"When  with  a  sullen  downcast  look, 
He  saw  his  brother  favour  find, 
Who  God's  appointed  method  took. 

4  By  Cain's  own  hand  good  Abel  dy'd, 
Because  the  Lord  approv'd  his  faith; 
And,  when  his  blood  for  vengeance  cry'd. 
He  vainly  thought  to  hide  his  death. 

5  Such  was  the  wicked  murd'rer  Cain, 
And  such  by  nature  still  are  we, 
Until  by  grace  we're  born  again, 
Malicious,  blind,  and  proud,  as  he. 

6  Like  him  the  way  of  grace  we  slight 
And  in  our  own  devices  trust, 


Hy.  3.  GENESIS.  \ 

Call  evil  good,  and  darkness  light, 
And  hate  and  persecute  the  just. 

7  The  saints  in  ev'ry  age  and  place, 
Have  found  his  history  fulfill'd; 
The  numbers  all  our  thoughts  surpass, 
Of  Abels,  whom  the  Cains  have  kilPd  (1)  ! 

g  Thus  Jesus  fell— but  oh!  his  blood 
Far  better  things  than  Abel's  cries  (2)  : 
Obtains  his  murd'rers  peace  with  God, 
And  gains  them  mansions  in  the  skies. 

III.  (c)  Walking  with  GOD.  Chap.  v.  24*, 

1  /^vll!  for  a  closer  walk  with  God, 
\J   A  calm  and  heav'nly  frame  ; 
A  light  to  shine  upon  the  road 

*     That  leads  me  to  the  Lamb ! 

2  Where  is  the  blessedness  I  knew 

When  first  I  saw  the  Lord  I 
Where  is  the  soul-refreshing  view 
Of  Jesus,  and  his  word? 

3  What  peaceful  hours  I  once  enjoy'd  I 

How  sweet  their  mem'ry  still! 
But  they  have  left  an  aching  void, 

The  world  can  never  fill. 
4f  Return,  O  holy  Dove,  return, 

Sweet  messenger  of  rest ; 
I  hate  the  sins  that  made  thee  mourn, 

And  drove  thee  from  my  breast: 

5  The  dearest  idol  I  have  known, 

Whate'er  that  idol  be, 
Help  me  to  tear  it  from  thy  throne, 
And  worship  only  thee. 

6  So  shall  my  walk  be  here  with  God, 

Calm  and  serene  my  frame  ; 

(1)  Rora.  viii.  36,  (2)  Heb.  xii,  24. 


19  GENESIS.  Bk.  I. 


So  purer  light  shall  mark  the  road 
That  leads  me  to  the  Lamb. 


IV.  Another. 

1  T>  Y  faith  in  Christ  I  walk  with  God, 
J3  With  heav'n,  my  journey's  end  in  view; 
Supported  by  his  staff  and  rod  (l), 

My  road  is  safe  and  pleasant  too. 

2  I  travel  through  a  desart  wide, 
Where  many  round  me  blindly  stray ; 
But  he  vouchsafes  to  be  my  guide  (2), 
And  will  not  let  me  miss  my  way. 

3  Though  snares  and  dangers  throng  my  path, 
And  earth  and  hell  my  course  withstand; 

I  triumph  over  all  by  faith  (3), 
Guarded  by  his  Almighty  hand. 

4  The  wilderness  affords  no  food, 
But  God  for  my  support  prepares ; 
Provides  me  ev'ry  needful  good, 

And  frees  my  soul  from  wants  and  cares. 

5  With  him  sweet  converse  I  maintain, 
Great  as  he  is,  I  dare  be  free  ; 

I  tell  him  all  my  grief  and  pain, 
And  he  reveals  his  love  to  me. 

6  Some  cordial  from  his  word  he  brings, 
W  hene'er  my  feeble  spirit  faints  ; 

At  once  my  soul  revives  and  sings, 
And  yields  no  more  to  sad  complaints. 

7  I  pity  all  that  worldlings  talk 

Of  pleasures  that  will  quickly  end  ; 

Be  this  my  choice,  O  Lord,  to  walk 

With  thee,  my  Guide,  my  Guard,  my  Friend, 

(1)  Psalm  xxii.  4.  (2)  Psalm  cvfr 

(3)  Psalm  xxvii.  1,  2. 


Hy.  5.  GENESIS.  41 

V.  LOT  in  Sodom.  Chap.  xiii.  19. 

1  T  TOW  hurtful  was  the  choice  of  Lot, 
JLjL  Who  took  up  his  abode 
(Because  it  was  a  fruitful  spot) 

With  them  who  fear  not  God  ! 

2  A  pris'ner  he  was  quickly  made, 

Bereav'd  of  all  his  store ; 
And,  but  for  Abram's  timely  aid, 
He  had  return'd  no  more. 

3  Yet  still  he  resolv'd  to  stay, 

As  if  it  were  his  rest; 
Altho'  their  sins  from  day  to  day  (1) 
His  righteous  soul  distress'd. 

4  Awhile  he  stay'd  with  anxious  mind, 

ExposM  to  scorn  and  strife ; 
At  last  he  left  his  all  behind, 

And  fled  to  save  his  life. 
3  In  vain  his  sons  in-law  he  warn'd, 

They  thought  he  told  his  dreams  : 
His  daughters  too,  of  him  had  learned 

And  perish'd  in  the  flames. 

6  His  wife  escap'd  a  little  way, 

But  dy'd  for  looking  back  : 
Hoes  not  her  case  to  pilgrims  say, 
"  Beware  of  growing  slack  ?" 

7  Yea,  Lot  himself  could  ling'ring  stand, 

Tho*  vengeance  was  in  view  ; 
5Twas  mercy  pluck'd  him  by  the  hand, 
Or  he  had  perish'd  too. 

8  The  doom  of  Sodom  will  be  ours, 

If  to  the  earth  we  cleave  $ 
Lord,  quicken  all  our  drowsy  pow'rs, 
To  flee  to  thee  and  live. 

(1)  2Pet.ii,& 


12  GENESIS.  Bk.  I. 

VI.  (c)    JEHQVAH-JIREH.    The  LORD 
■will provide*  Chap.  xxii.  14. 

1  rT^HE  saints  should  never  be  dismay'd, 

A     Nor  sink  in  hopeless  fear ; 
For  when  they  least  expect  his  aid, 
The  Saviour  will  appear. 

2  This  Abra'm  found,  he  rais'd  the  knife, 

God  saw,  and  said,  "  Forbear;" 
Yon  ram  shall  yield  his  meaner  life  : 
Behold  the  victim  there. 

3  Once  David  seem'd  Saul's  certain  prey ; 

But  hark  !  the  foe's  at  hand  (l)  ; 
'Saul  turns  his  arms  another  way, 
To  save  the  invaded  land. 

4  "When  Jonah  sunk  beneath  the  wave, 

He  thought  to  rise  no  more  (2); 
But  God  prepar'd  a  fish  to  save, 
And  bear  him  to  the  shore. 

5  Blest  proofs  of  pow'r  and  grace  divine, 

That  meet  us  in  his  word  ! 
May  ev'ry  deep-felt  care  of  mine 
Be  trusted  with  the  Lord. 

6  Wait  for  his  seasonable  aid, 

And  though  it  tarry,  wait ; 
The  promise  may  be  long  delay'd 
But  cannot  come  too  late. 

VII.   The  LORD  will  provide. 
1   npHOUGH  troubles  assail, 
A     And  dangers  affright, 
Though  friends  should  all  fail, 
And  foes  all  unite  ; 
Yet  one  thing  secures  us, 
Whatever  betide, 
The  scripture  assures  us, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

(1)  Sam.  xxiii.  7.  (2)  Jonah  i.  17 


Hy.  r.  GENESIS.  13 

2  The  birds  without  barn 
Or  storehouse  are  fed, 
From  them  let  us  learn 
To  trust  for  our  bread  : 
His  saints  what  is  fitting, 
Shall  ne'er  be  deny'd 

So  long  as  'tis  written, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

3  We  may,  like  the  ships, . 
By  tempests  be  tost 

On  perilous  deeps, 
But  cannot  be  lost : 
Though  Satan  enrages 
The  wind  and  the  tide, 
The  promise  engages, 
.   The  Lord  will  provide. 

4  His  call  we  obey, 
Like  Abra'm  of  old, 
Not  knowing  our  way, 
But  faith  makes  us  bold  ; 
For  though  we  are  strangers, 
We  have  a  good  guide, 

And  trust  in  all  dangers 
The  Lord   will  provide. 

5  When  Satan  appears 
To  stop  up  our  path, 
And  fills  us   with  fears: 
We  triumph  by  faith  ; 
He  cannot  take  from  us, 
Though  oft  he  has  try'd, 
This  heart-cheering  promise, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

6  He  tells  us  we're  weak, 
Our  hope  is  in  vain, 
The  good  that  we  seek 
We  ne'er  shall  obtain : 

B 


U  GENESIS.  Bk.  I. 

But  when  such  suggestions 
Our  spirits  have  ply'd 
This  answers  all  questions, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

7  No  strength  of  our  own, 
Or  goodness  we  claim, 
Yet  since  we  have  known 
The  Saviour's  great  name, 
In  this  our  strong  tower 
For  safety  we  hide, 

The  Lord  is  our  power, 
The  Lord  will  provide. 

8  When  life  sinks  apace, 
And  death  is  in  view, 
This  word  of  his  grace 
Shall  comfort  us  through  : 
No  fearing  or  doubting, 
"With  Christ  on  our  side 

We  hope  to  die  shouting  , 

The  Lord  will  provide. 
VIII.  ESAU.     Chap.  xxv.  34.  Heb.  xii.  16. 

1  ~T)OOR  Esau  repented  too  late, 

JL      That  once  he  his  birth-right  despis'd  ; 
And  sold  for  a  morsel  of  meat, 
What  could  not  too  highly  be  priz'd  : 
How  great  was  his  anguish  when  told, 
The  Blessing  he  sought  to  obtain, 
Was  gone  with  the  birth-right  he  sold, 
And  none  could  recal  it  again  ! 

2  He  stands  as  a  warning  to  all, 
Wherever  the  gospel  shall  come, 
O  hasten  and  yield  to  the  call 

While  yet  for  repentance  there's  room ! 
Your  season  will  quickly  be  past ; 
Then  hear  and  obey  it  to-day, 
Lest  when  you  seek  mercy  at  last, 
The  Saviour  should  frown  you  away. 


Hy.  9.  GENESIS.  15 

3  What  is  it  the  world  can  propose  ? 
A  morsel  of  meat  at  the  best ! 
For  this  are  you  willing  to  lose 

A  share  in  the  joys  of  the  blest  ? 
Its  pleasures  will  speedily  end, 
Its  favour  and  praise  are  but  breath  ; 
And  what  can  its  profits  befriend 
Your  soul  in  the  moment  of  death  ? 

4  If  Jesus  for  these  you  despise, 
And  sin,  to  the  Saviour  prefer  ; 
In  vain  your  entreaties  and  cries, 
When  summoned  to  stand  at  his  bar  : 
How  will  you  his  presence  abide  ? 
What  anguish  will  torture  your  heart  | 
The  saints  all  enthroned  by  his  side, 
And  you  be  compell'd  to  depart. 

6  Too  often,  dear  Saviour,  have  I, 
Prefer' d  some  poor  trifle  to  thee  $ 
How  is  it  thou  dost  not  deny 
The  blessing  and  birth-right  to  me  ? 
No  better  than  Esau  I  am, 
Though  pardon  and  heav'n  be  mine  ; 
To  me  belongs  nothing  but  shame, 
The  praise  and  the  glory  be  thine. 
IX.  JACOB'S  Ladder.     Chap,  xxviii.  12* 

1  TF  the  Lord  our  leader  be, 

J.    We  may  follow  without  fear ; 
East  or  West,  by  land  or  sea, 
Home  with  him  is  ev'ry  where  : 
When  from  Esau  Jacob  fled, 
Though  his  pillow  was  a  stone, 
And  the  ground  his  humble  bed, 
Yet  he  was  not  left  alone. 

2  Kings  are  often  waken  kept, 
Rack'd  with  cares  on  beds  of  state  ; 
Never  king  like  Jacob  slept, 

For  he  lay  at  heav  Vs  gate  : 


16  GENESIS.  Bk.  J. 

Lo  !  he  saw  a  ladder  rear'd, 
Reaching  to  the  heavenly  throne  ; 
At  the  top  the  Lord  appear'd, 
Spake,  and  claim'd  him  for  his  own. 
3  "  Fear  not  Jacob,  thou  art  mine, 
And  my  presence  with  thee  goes  ; 
On  thy  heart  my  love  shall  shine, 
And  my  arm  subdue  thy  foes  : 
From  my  promise  comfort  take, 
For  my  ht-lp  in  trouble  call; 
Never  will  I  thee  forsake, 
'Till  I  have  accomplished  all. 

4  Well  does  Jacob's  ladder  suit 
To  the  Gospel  throne  of  grace  ; 
We  are  at  the  ladder's  foot, 
Ev'ry  hour  in  ev'ry  place  : 

By  assuming  flesh  and  blood, 
Jesus  heaven  and  earth  unites ; 
We  by  faith  ascend  to  God  (1)  ; 
God  to  dwell  with  us  delights. 

5  They  who  know  the  Saviour's  name, 
Are  for  all  events  prepar'd  ; 

What  can  changes  do  to  them, 

WTho  have  such  a  guide  and  guard  ? 

Should  they  traverse  earth  around, 

To  the  ladder  still  they  come  : 

Every  spot  is  holy  ground, 

God  is  there — and  he's  their  home, 

X.  My  name  is  JACOB.  Chap,  xxxii.  2T< 

1  'V  T  AY,  1  cannot  let  thee  go, 
JLN    Till  a  blessing  thou  bestow  ; 
Do  not  turn  away  thy  face, 
Mine's  an  urgent,  pressing  case, 

2  Dost  thou  ask  me,  who  I  am  ? 

Ah,  My  Lord,  thou  know'st  my  name  e 

(1)  2  Ccr.  vi.  16. 


Hy.  11.  genesis,  m: 

Yet  the  question  gives  a  plea, 
To  support  my  suit  with  thee. 

3  Thou  didst  once  a  wretch  behold, 
In  rebellion  blindly  bold, 

Scorn  thy  grace,  thy  pow'r  defy, 
That  poor  rebel,  Lord,  was  I. 

4  Once  a  sinner  near  despair 
Sought  thy  mercy-seat  by  pray'r ; 
Mercy  heard  and  set  him  free, 
Lord,  that  mercy  came  to  me. 

5  Many  years  have  pass'd  since  then, 
Many  changes  I  have  seen; 

Yet  have  been  upheld  till  now, 
"Who  could  hold  me  up  but  thou. 

6  Thou  hast  helpM  in  ev'ry  need, 
This  emboldens  me  to  plead; 
After  so  much   mercy  past, 
Canst  thou  let  me  sink  at  last ! 

7  No — I  must  maintain  my  hold, 
'Tis  thy  goodness  makes  me  bold  ; 
I  can  no  denial  take,     * 

When  I  plead  for  Jesus'  sake. 

XI.  Plenty  in  the  time  of  dearth.  Chap.  xli.  56, 

1  "\/|"Y  soul  once  had  its  plenteous  years, 
-LYA.  And  throve,  with  peace  and  comfort 

fill'd, 
Like  the  fat  kine  and  ripen'd  ears, 
Which  Pharaoh  in  his  dream  beheld. 

2  With  pleasing  frames  and  grace  receiv'd, 
With  means  and  ordinances  fed, 

How  happy  for  a  while  I  liv'd, 
And  little  fear'd  the  want  of  bread. 
3- But  famine  came  and  left  no  sign 
Of  all  the  plenty  I  had  seen  ; 
Like  the  dry  ears  and  half  starv'd  kine, 
I  then  look'd  wither'd  faint  and  lean., 
B  2 


18  GENESIS.  Ck.  1 

4  To  Joseph  the  Egyptians  went ; 
To  Jesus  I  made  known  my  case  ; 
He,  when  my  little  stock  was  spent, 
Open'd  his  magazine  of  grace. 

5  For  he  the  time  of  dearth  foresaw, 
And  made  provision  long  before  ; 

That  famish'd  souls,  like  me,  might  draw 
Supplies  from  his  unbounded  store. 

6  Now  on  his  bounty  I  depend, 

And  live  from  fear  of  dearth  secure  ; 
Maintained  by  such  a  mighty  friend, 
I  cannot  want  till  he  is  poor. 

7  O  sinners,  hear  his  gracious  call ! 
His  mercy's  door  stands  open  wide  ; 
He  has  enough  to  feed  you  all, 
And  none  who  come  shall  be  deny'd 

XII.  JOSEPH  made  known  to  his  brethren-. 
Chap.  xlv.  3,  4. 

1  XT  THEN  Joseph  his  brethren  beheld, 

VV     Afflicted  and  trembling  with  fear,. 
His  heart  with  compassion  was  fill'd, 
From  weeping  he  could  not  forbear. 
A  while  his  behaviour  was  rough, 
To  bring  their  past  sin  to  their  mind  ; 
But,  when  they  were  humbled  enough, 
He  hasted  to  shew  himsell  kind. 

2  How  little  they  thought  it  was  he, 
Whom  thev  had  ill-treated  and  sold  ! 
How  great  their  contusion  must  be, 
As  soon  as  his  name  he  had  told  ! 

14  I  am  Joseph  your  brother,  he  said, 
And  still  to  my  heart  you  are  dear, 
You  sold  me,  and  thought  I  was  dead, 
But  God,  for  your  sakes,  sent  me  here.75 

3  Though  greatly  distressed  before, 
When  charg'd  with  purloining  the  ciip3. 


My.  12.  GENESIS.  19 

They  now  were  confounded  much  more, 

Not  one  of  them  durst  to  look  up. 

"  Can  Joseph,  whom  we  would  have  slain, 

Forgive  us  the  evil  we  did  ? 

And  will  he  oui;  households  maintain  ? 

O  this  is  a  brother  indeed  ! 

4  Thus  dragg'd  by  my  conscience,  I  came, 
And  laden  with  guilt,  to  the  I^ord  ; 
Surrounded  with  terror  and  shame, 
Unable  to  utter  a  word. 

At  first  he  look'd  stern  and  severe, 
What  anguish  then  pierced  my  heart, 
Expecting  each  moment  to  hear 
The  sentence,  "  Thou  cursed  depart  !" 

5  But  oh !  what  surprise  when  he  spoke, 
While  tenderness  beam'd  in  his  face  ; 
My  heart  then  to  pieces  was  broke, 
O'i.  rvv'helm'd  and  confounded  by  grace  : 
"  Poor  sintaer  I  know  thee  full  well, 
By  thee  I  was  sold  and  was  slain  ; 
Bat  I  dy'd  to  redeem  thee  from  hell, 
And  raise  thee  in  glory  to  reign. 

6  I  am  Jesus,  whom  thou  hast  blasphem'd, 
And  cruciiy'd  often  afresh  ; 

But  let  me  henceforth  be  esteem'd, 

Thy  brother,  thy  bone,  and  thy  flesh  : 

My  pardon  I  freely  bestow, 

Thy  wants  I  will  fully  supply  ; 

I'll  guide  thee  and  guard  thee  below, 

And  soon  will  remove  thee  on  high. 

7  Go,  publish  to  sinners  around, 
That  they  may  be  willing  to  come, 
The  mercy  which  now  you  have  found, 
And  tell  them  that  yet  there  is  room." 
Oh  sinners,  the  message  obey  ! 

No  more  vain  excuses  pretend ; 
But  come  without  further  delay, 
To  Jesus,  our  brother  and  friend, 


20  EXODUS.  Bk.  1 


EXODUS. 

XIII.   The  bitter  waters.  Chap.  xv.  23—25, 

1  T)  ITTER  indeed  the  waters  are 
JD   Which  in  this  desart  flow  ; 
Though  to  the  eye  they  promise  fair, 

They  taste  of  sin  and  woe. 

2  Of  pleasing  draughts  I  once  could  dream, 

But  now  awake,  I  find, 
That  sin  has  poison'd  every  stream, 
And  left  a  curse  behind. 

3  But  there's  a  wonder  working  wood, 

I've  heard  believers  say, 
Can  make  these  bitter  waters  good, 
And  take  the  curse  away. 

4  The  virtues  of  this  healing  tree 

Are  known  and  priz'd  by  few  : 
Reveal  this  secret,  Lord,  to  me, 
That  I  may  prize  it  too. 

5  The  cross  on  which  the  Saviour  dy'd, 

And  conquer'd  for  his  saints  ; 
This  is  the  tree,  by  faith  apply'd, 
Which  sweetens  all  complaints. 

6  Thousands  have  found  the  bless'd  effect, 

Nor  longer  mourn  their  lot; 
While  on  his  sorrow  they  reflect, 
Our  own  are  all  forgot. 

7  When  they  by  faith  behold  the  cross, 

Though  many  griefs  they  meet ; 
They  draw  again  from  every  loss, 
And  find  the  bitter  sweet. 

XIV.  (c)    JEHOVAH  ROPHI— I  am  the 
LORD  that  healeth  thee*     Chap.  xv. 
1   T  TEAL  us,  Emmanuel,  here  we  are> 
JtjL  Waiting  to  feel  thy  touch  $ 


Hy.  14.  EXODUS.  21 

Deep  wounded  souls  to  thee  repair, 
And,  Saviour,  we  are  such. 

2  Our  faith  is  feeble  we  confess, 

We  faintly  trust  thy  word  ; 

But  wilt  thou  pity  us  the  less  ? 

Be  that  far  from  the  Lord  ! 

3  Remember  him  who  once  apply'd 

With  trembling  for  relief; 
"  Lord,  I  believe,  with  tears  he  cry'd  (l,) 
O  help  my  unbelief." 

4  She  too  who  touch'd  thee  in  the  press, 

And  healing  virtue  stole, 
Was  answer'd   "  Daughter,  go  in  peace  (2), 

Thy  faith  hath  made  thee  whole." 
$  ConceaPd  amidst  the  gathering, 

She  would  have  shun'd  thy  view  ; 
And  if  her  faith  was  firm  and  strong, 

Had  strong  misgivings  too. 
6  Like  her  with  hopes,  and  fears  we  come, 

To  touch  thee  if  we  may; 
Oh  !  send  us  not  despairing  home, 

Send  none  unheal'd  away. 

XV.  MANNA.  Chap.  xvi.  18. 

1  ~|\/T  ANNA  to  Israel  well  supply'd 
jLYjL    The  want  of  other  bread  : 
While  God  is  able  to  provide, 

His  people  shall  be  fed. 

2  (Thus  though  the  corn  and  wine  should  fail; 

And  creature  streams  be  dry; 
The  prayer  of  faith  will  still  prevail, 
For  blessings  from  on  high.) 

3  Of  his  kind  care  how  sweet  a  proof! 

It  suited  every  taste  : 
Who  gathered  most  had  just  enough, 
Enough  who  gathered  least. 

(1)  Mark,  ix.  24.  (2)  Mark  v.  34. 


22  EXODUS.  Bk.  t 

4  'Tis  our  gracious  Lord  provides, 

Oar  comforts  and  our  cares  ; 
His  own  unerring  hand  provides, 
And  gives  us  each  our  shares. 

5  He  knows  how  much  the  weak  can  bear, 

And  helps  them  when  they  cry  ; 
The  strongest  have  no  strength  to  spare, 
For  such  he'll  strongly  try. 

6  Daily  they  saw  the  Manna  come 

And  cover  all  the  ground  ; 
But  what  they  try'd  to  keep  at  home, 
Corrupted  soon  was  found. 

7  Yain  their  attempts  to  store  it  up, 

This  was  to  tempt  the  Lord  : 
Israel  must  live  by  faith  and  hope, 
And  not  upon  a  hoard. 

XVI.  Manna  hoarded.     Chap.  xvi.  20. 

1  rTMHE  Manna,  favour'd  Israel's  meat, 

A     Was  gather'd  day  by  day  ; 
"When  all  the  host  was  serv'd,  the  heat 
Melted  the  rest  away. 

2  In  vain  to  hoard  it  up  they  try'd, 

Against  to-morrow  came ; 
It  then  bred  worms  and  putrefy'd, 
And  prov'd  their  sin  and  shame. 

3  'Twas  daily  bread  and  would  not  keep, 

But  must  be  still  renew'd  ; 
Faith  should  not  want  a  hoard  or  heap, 
But  trust  the  Lord  for  food. 

4  The  truths  by  which  the  soul  is  fed, 

Must  thus  be  had  afresh, 
For  notions  resting  in  the  head, 
Will  only  feed  the  flesh. 

5  However  true,  they  have  no  life 

Or  unction  to  impart ; 


Hy.  17.  EXODUS.  2 

They  breed  the  worms  of  pride  and  strife, 
But  cannot  cheer  the  heart. 

6  Nor  can  the  best  experience  past, 

The  life  of  faith  maintain  ; 
The  brightest  hope  will  faint  at  last, 
iJnless  supplv'd  again. 

7  Dear  Lord  while  we  in  prayer  are  found, 

Do  thou  the  Manna  give  ; 
Oh  !  let  it  fall  on  all  around, 
That  we  may  eat  and  live. 

XVII.  (c)  JEHOVAH  NISSL 
The  LORD  my  banner.     Chap.  xvii.  15. 

1  T)  Y  whom  was  David  taught 
JO  To  aim  the  dreadful  blow, 
"When  he  Goliah  fought, 

And  laid  the  Gittite  low  \ 
]Vo  sword  nor  spear  the  stripling  took, 
But  chose  a  pebble  from  the  brook. 

2  'Tvvas  Israel's  God  and  king, 

Who  sent  him  to  the  fight, 
"Who  gave  him  strength  to  sling, 

And  skill  to  aim  aright. 
Ye  feeble  saints  your  strength  endures, 
Because  young  David's  God  is  yours. 

3  Who  ordered  Gideon  forth, 

To  storm  the  invader's  camp  (l) 
"With  arms  of  little  worth, 

A  pitcher  and  a  lamp  ? 
The  trumpets  made  his  coming  known. 
And  all  the  host  was  overthrown. 

4  Oh  !  I  have  seen  the  day, 

When  with  a  single  word, 
God  helping  me  to  say, 
My  trust  is  in  the  Lord, 

(1)  Judges,  v".  20, 


24  EXODUS.  Bk.  I. 

My  soul  has  qut-ll'd  a  thousand  foes, 
Fearless  of  ail  that  could  oppose. 
5  But  unbelief,  self- w  id, 

Self-righteousness,  and  pride, 
How  often  do  they  steal, 

My  weapon  from  my  side  ? 
Yet  David's  Lord,  and  Gideon's  friend, 
"Will  help  his  servant  to  the  end. 

XVIII.    The  Golden  Calf.    Chap,  xxxii.  4.  41. 

1  T  ~*  7  HEN  Israel  heard  the  fiery  law, 

V  V      From  Sinai's  top  proclaim'd, 
Their  hearts  seem'd  full  of  holy  awe, 
Their  stubborn  spirits  tam'd. 

2  Yet  as  forgetting  all  they  knew, 

Ere  forty  days  were  past, 
With  blazing  Sinai  still  in  view, 
A  molten  calf  they  cast. 

3  Yea  Aaron,  God's  anointed  priest, 

Who  on  the  mount  had  been, 
He  durst  prepare  the  idol  beast, 
And  lead  them  on  to  sin. 

4  Lord,  what  is  man,  and  what  are  we, 

To  recompense  thee  thus  ! 
In  their  offence  our  own  we  see, 
Their  story  points  at  us. 

5  Erom  Sinai  we  heard  thee  speak, 

And  from  mount  Calv'ry  too  \ 
And  yet  to  idols  oft  we  seek, 
While  thou  art  in  our  view. 

6  Some  golden  calf,  or  golden  dream, 

Some  fancied  creature-good, 
Presumes  to  share  the  heart  with  him, 
Who  bought  the  whole  with  blood. 

7  Lord,  save  us  from  our  golden  calves, 

Our  sin  with  grief  we  own  ; 


Hy.  19.  LEVITICUS.  25 

We  would  no  more  be  thine  by  halves, 
But  live  to  thee  alone* 


LEVITICUS. 

XIX.   The  true  Aaron,     Chap,  viii.'  7-<— 9« 

1  Q«  EE  Aaron,  God's  anointed  priest, 
O    Within  the  v^iil  appear, 

In  robes  of  mystic  meaning  drest, 
Presenting  Israel's  prayer. 

2  The  plate  of  gold  which  crowns  his  brows5 

His  holiness  describes; 
His  breast  displays  in  shining  rows, 
The  names  of  all  the  tribes. 

3  With  the  atoning  blood  he  stands 

Before  the  mercy-seat, 
And  clouds  of  incense  from  his  hands 
Arise  with  odour  sweet. 

4  Urim  and  Thummim  near  his  heart, 

In  rich  engravings  worn, 
The  sacred  light  of  truth  impart, 
To  teach  and  to  adorn. 

5  Through  him,  the  eye  of  faith  describes 

A  greater  priest  than  he  : 
Thus  Jesus  pleads  above  the  skies, 

For  you,  my  friends,  and  me. 
"6  He  bears  the  name  of  all  his  saints,. 

Deep  on  his  heart  engraved ; 
Attentive  to  the  state  and  wants, 

Of  all  his  love  has  sav'd. 
T  In  hima  holiness  complete, 

Light  and  perfections  shine, 
And  wisdom,  grace,  and  glory  meet . 

A  Saviour  all  divine. 

c 


26  NUMBERS.  Bk.  I. 

8  The  blood,  which  as  a  priest,  he  bears 
For  sinners,  is  his  own  ; 
The  incense  of  his  pray'rs  and  tears 
Perfume  the  holy  throne. 
§  In  him  my  weary  soul  has  rest, 
Though  I  am  weak  and  vile ; 
I  read  my  name  upon  his  breast, 
And  see  the  Father  smile. 


NUMBERS. 

XX.  BALAAM'S  Wish   (1.)    Chap.  *xiii.  10. 

1  TJOW  blest  the  righteous  are, 
XJL   When  they  resign  their  breath  ! 
No  wonder  Balaam  wish'd  to  share 

In  such  a  happy  death. 

2  "  Oh !  let  me  die,  safd  he, 

The  death  the  righteous  do  ; 
When  life  is  ended,  let  me  be 
Found  with  the  faithful  few." 

3  The  force  of  truth,  how  great! 

When  enemies  confess, 
None  but  the  righteous,  whom  they  hate, 
A  solid  hope  confess. 

4  But  Balaam's  wish  was  vain, 

His  heart  was  insincere  : 
He  thirsted  for  unrighteous  gain, 
And  sought  a  portion  here. 

5  He  seem'd  the  Lord  to  know, 

And  to  offend  him  loth ; 
But  Mammon  prov'd  his  overthrow. 
For  none  can  serve  them  both. 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  71 


Hy.  21.  JOSHUA. 

6  May  you,  my  friends,  and  I, 
Warning  from  hence  receive  ; 
If  like  the  righteous  we  could  die. 
To  choose  the  life  they  live. 


JOSHUA, 

XXI.  GIBEON.    Chap.  x.  6. 
i    TITHEN  Joshua  by  God's  command. 
V  V     Invaded  Canaan's  guilty  land, 
Gibeon,  unlike  the  nations  round, 
Submission  made,  and  mercy  found. 

2  Their  stubborn  neighbours,  who  enrag'd, 
United  war  against  them  wag'd, 

By  Joshua  soon  were  overthrown, 
For  Gibeon's  cause  was  now  his  own. 

3  He  from  whose  arm  they  ruin  fear'd, 
Their  leader  and  ally  appear'd  ; 

An  emblem  of  the  Saviour's  grace, 
To  those  who  humbly  seek  his  face. 

4  The  men  of  Gibeon  wore  disguise, 
And  gain'd  their  peace  by  framing  lies  : 
For  Joshua  had  no  pow'r  to  spare, 

If  he  had  known  from  whence  they  were, 

5  But  Jesus  invitations  sends, 
Treating  with  rebels  as  his  friends, 
And  holds  the  promise  forth  in  view, 
To  all  who  for  his  mercy  sue. 

6  Too  long  his  goodness  I  disdained, 
Yet  went  at  last  and  peace  obtain'd ; 
But  soon  the  noise  of  war  I  heard, 
And  former  friends  in  arms  appear'd, 

7  Weak  in  myself  for  help  I  cry'd, 
Lord,  I  am  press'd  on  every  side  j. 


28  JUDGES.  Bk    I> 

The  cause  is  thine,  they  fight  with  me, 
But  ev'ry  blow  is   aim'd  at  thee. 
8  With  speed  to  my  relief  he  came, 
And  put  my  enemies  to  shame  : 
Thus  sav'd  by  grace,  I  live  to  sing 
The  love  and  triumphs  of  my  king. 

JUDGES. 

XXII.   (c)    JEHOVAH-SHALEM.—The 

Lord  send  peace..  Chap  vi.  24. 
f.    TESUS,  whose  blood  so  freely  stream'd 
J    To  satisfy  the  law's  demand  ; 
By  thee  from  guilt  and  wrath  redeem'd, 
Before  the  Father's  face  I  stand. 

2  To  reconcile  offending  man, 
Made  Justice  drop  her  angry  rod  ; 

What  creature  could  have  form'd  the  plan^ 
Or  who  fulfil  it,  but  a  God  ? 

3  No  drop  remains  of  all  the  curse, 
For  wretches  who  deserv'd  the  whole  ; 
No  arrows  dipt  in  wrath  to  pierce 
The  guilty,  but  returning  soul. 

4  Peace  by  such  means  so  dearly  bought, 
What  rebel  could  have  hop'd  to  see  ? 
Peace  by  his  injur'd  Sov'reign  wrought, 
His  Sov'reign  fast'ned  to  the  tree. 

'    Now,  Lord,  thy  feeble  worm  prepare  ! 
For  strife  with  earth  and  hell  begins  ; 
Confirm  and  gird  me  for  the  war, 
They  hate  the  soul  that  hates  his  sins. 

6  Let  them  in  horrid  league  agree  ; 
They  may  assault,  they  may  distress  ; 
But  cannot  quench  thy  love  to  me, 
Nor  rob  me  of  the  Lord  my  peace. 

XXIII.  GWEON's  Fleece.  Chap.  vi.  37—40. 

1    ^TpHE  signs  which  God  to  Gideon  gave, 
JL    His  holv  Sovereignty  made  known  : 


Hy.  24.  JUDGES.  29 

That  he  alone  has  pow'r  to  save, 
And  claims  the  glory  as  his  own. 

2  The  dew  which  first  the  fleece  had  fill'd, 
When  all  the  earth  was  dry  around, 
Was  from  it  afterwards  withheld, 

And  only  fell  upon  the  ground. 

3  To  Israel  thus  the  heavenly  dew 

Of  saving  truth,  was  long  restrain'd ; 
Of  which  the  Gentiles  nothing  knew  \ 
But  dry  and  desolate  remain'd. 

4  But  now  the  Gentiles  have  receiv'd 
The  balmy  dew  of  Gospel  peace, 
And  Israel,  who  his  Spirit  griev'd, 
Is  left  a  dry  and  empty  fleece. 

5  This  dew  still  falls  at  his  command, 
To  keep  his  chosen  saints  alive  ; 
They  shall,  though  in  a  thirsty  land, 
Like  willows  by  the  water  thrive  (1.) 

6  But  chiefly  when  his  people  meet, 
To  hear  his  word  and  seek  his  face  : 
The  gentle  dew,  with  influence  sweet, 
Descends  and  nourishes  their  grace. 

7  But  ah  !  what  numbers  still  are  dead, 
Though  under  means  of  grace  they  lie  ? 
The  dew  still  falling  round  their  head, 
And  yet  their  heart  untouch'd  and  dry. 

8  Dear  Saviour,  hear  us  when  we  call ; 
To  wrestling  prayer  an  answer  give  ; 
Pour  down  thy  dew  upon  us  all ; 
That  all  may  feel,  and  all  may  live. 

XXIV.  SAMPSONS  Lion.  Chap.  xiv.  8, 
1   nnHE  lien  that  on  Samson  roar'd, 
X    And  thirsted  for  his  blood  ; 

(1)  Isaiah  xliv.  4. 
C2 


3C  L  SAMUEL.  Bk.  I. 

With  honey  afterwards  was  stor'd, 
And  furnish'd  him  with  food. 
2  Believers,  as  they  pass  along, 
With  many  lions  meet, 
But  gather  sweetness  from  the  strong, 
And  from  the  eater,  meat. 
j  The  lions  rage  and  roar  in  vain, 
For  Jesus  is  their  shield  ; 
Their  losses  prove  a  certain  gain, 
Their  troubles  comfort  yield. 
4.  The  world  and  Satan  join  their  strength, 
To  fill  their  souls  with  fears  ; 
But  crops  of  joy  they  reap  at  length, 
From  what  they,  sow  in  tears. 
5   Afflictions  make  them  love  the  word, 
Stir  up  their  hearts  to  pray'r ; 
And  many  precious  proofs  afford, 
Of  their  Redeemer's  care. 
3  The  lions  roar,  but  cannot  kill : 
Then  fear  them  not,  my  friends, 
They  bring  us,  though  against  their  will, 
The  honey  Jesus  sends. 

I.  SAMUEL. 

XXV.   HANNAH:  or  the    Throne  of  Grace. 
Chap.  i.  18. 

k  TI7HEN  Hannah  press'd  with  grief, 
VV     Pour'd. forth  her  soul  in  pray'r  ; 
She  quickly  found  relief, 

And  left  her  burden  there  : 
Like  her  i<j.  every  trying  case, 
Let  us  approach  the  throne  of  grace, 
2  When  she  began  to  pray, 

Her  heart  was  pain'd  and  sad  J 
But  ere  she  went  away, 
Was  comforted  and  glad  : 


Hy.  25.  I.  SAMUEL.  31 

In  trouble  what  a  resting  place, 

Have  they  who  know  the  throne  of  grace. 

3  Though  men  and  devils  rage, 

And  threaten  to  devour ; 
The  saints  from  age  to  age, 

Are  safe  from  all  their  pow'r ; 
Fresh  strength  they  gain  to  run  their  race? 
By  waiting  at  the  throne  of  grace. 

4  Eli  her  case  mistook, 

How  was  her  spirit  mov'd 
By  his  unkind  rebuke  ? 

But  God  her  cause  approv'd. 
We  need  not  fear  a  creature's  face, 
"While  welcome  at  a  throne  of  grace, 

5  She  was  not  fill'd  with  wine, 

As  Eli  rashly  thought ; 
But  with  a  faith  divine, 

And  found  the  help  she  sought : 
Though  men  despise  and  call  us  base=> 
Still  let  us  ply  the  throne  of  grace. 

6  Men  have  not  power  or  skill, 

With  troubled  souls  to  bear: 
Though  they  express  good  will, 

Poor  comforters  they  are  : 
Bat  swelling  sorrows  sink  apace, 
When  we  approach  the  throne  of  grace. 

7  Numbers  before  have  try'd, 

And  found  the  promise  true  f 
Nor  yet  one  been  deny'd, 

Thea  why  should  I  or  you  ? 
Let  us  by  faith  their  footsteps  tracer 
And  hasten  to  the  throne  of  grace*. 
3-  As  fogs  obscure  the  light, 

And  taint  the  morning  air, 
But  soon  are  put  to  flight, 

If  the  bright  sun  appear  ; 


52  I.  SAMUEL.  Bk.  I. 

Thus  Jesus  will  our  troubles  chase, 

By  shining  from  the  throne  of  grace  (1.) 

XXVI.  D AGON  before  the  ark.  Chap.  v.  4,  5. 

1  T  ~\  THEN  first  to  make  my  heart  his  own, 

V  V    The  Lord  reveal'd  his  mighty  grace, 
Self  reign'd,  like  Dagon,  on  the  throne, 
But  could  not  long  maintain  its  place. 

2  It  fell,  and  own'd  the  pow'r  divine, 
(Grace  can  with  ease  the  vict'ry  gain) 
But  soon  this  wretched  heart  of  mine 
Contriv'd  to  set  it  up  again. 

3  Again  the  Lord  his  name  proclaimed, 
And  brought  the  hateful  idol  low  ; 
Then  self,  like  Dagon,  broken,  maim'd, 
SeemM  to  receive  a  mortal  blow. 

4  Yet  self  is  not  of  life  bereft, 
Nor  ceases  to  oppose  his  will ; 
Tho'  but  a  maimed  stump  be  left, 
'Tis  Dagon,  'tis  an  idol  still. 

5  Lord  !  must  I  always  guilty  prove, 
And  idols  in  my  heart  have  room  (2)  ? 
Oh  !  Let  the  fire  of  heav'nly  love, 
The  very  stump  of  self  consume. 

XXYIL  The  milch   Kine  drawing    the  Ark 
Faith? s  surrender  of  all.  Chap.  vi.  12. 

1  r  I  ^HE  kine  unguided  went 

JL    By  the  directest  road, 
When  the  Philistines  homeward  sent 
The  ark  of  Israel's  God. 

2  Lowing  they  pass'd  along, 

And  left  their  calves  shut  up  ; 
They  felt  an  instinct  for  their  youngr 
But  would  not  turn  or  stop. 

(1)  Book  II.  Hymn  61.  (<J)  Hosea  xvii.  8 


Hy.  28.  I.  SAMUEL.  33 

3  Shall  brutes  devoid  of  thought, 

Their  Maker's  will  obey  ; 
And  we,  who  by  his  grace  are  taught. 
More  stubborn  prove  than  they  I 

4  He  shed  his  precious  blood 

To  make  us  his  alone  ; 
If  wash'd  in  that  atoning  flood, 
"We  are  no  more  our  own. 

5  If  he  his  will  reveal, 

Let  us  obey  his  call ; 
And  think  whate'er  the  flesh  may  feel# 
His  love  deserves  our  all. 

6  We  should  maintain  in  view 

His  glory,  as  our  end ; 
Too  much  we  cannot  bear,  or  do1 
For  such  a  matchless  friend. 

7  His  saints  should  stand  preparM 

In  duty's  path  to  run  ; 
Nor  count  his  greatest  trials  hard, 

So  that  his  will  be  done. 
S  With  Jesus  for  our  guide, 

The  path  is  safe  though  rough  ; 
The  promise  says,  "  I  will  provide," 

And  faith  replies,  "  Enough  !" 

XXVIII.  SAUVs  Armour,  Chap.  xvii.  38— 40a 

1  TI7HEI  first  my  soul  enlisted 

V  V     My  Saviour's  foes  to  fight ; 
Mistaken  friends  insisted 

I  was  not  arm'd  aright : 
So  Saul  advised  David 

H*L  certainly  would  fail ; 
Noi -ffcbuld  his  life  be  saved 

Without  a  coat  of  mail. 

2  But  David,  though  he  yielded. 

To  put  the  armour  on, 


34  I.  SAMUEL.  Bk.  I. 

Soon  found  he  could  not  wield  it, 
And  ventured  forth  with  none. 

With  only  sling  and  pebble 
He  fought  the  fight  of  faith  ; 

The  weapons  seem'd  but  feeble, 
Yet  prov'd  Goliah's  death. 

3  Had  I  by  him  been  guided, 

And  quickly  thrown  away, 
The  armour  men  provided, 

1  might  have  gain'd  the  day  $ 
But  arm'd  as  they  advis'd  me, 

My  expectations  fail'd  ; 
My  enemy  surpris'd  me, 

And  had  almost  prevail'd. 

4  Furnish'd  with  books  and  notions, 

And  arguments  and  pride  ; 
I  practis'd  all  my  motions, 

And  Satan's  pow'r  dtfy'd ; 
But  soon  perceiv'd  with  trouble, 

That  these  would  do  no  good  ', 
Iron  to  him  is  stubble  (1,) 

And  brass  like  rotten  wood. 

5  I  triumph'd  at  a  distance 

While  he  was  out  of  sight, 
But  faint  was  my  resistance 

When  forc'd  to  join  in  fight ; 
He  broke  my  sword  in  shivers, 

And  piercM  my  boasted  shield  ; 
Laugh'd  at  my  vain  endeavours, 

And  drove  me  from  the  field. 

6  Satan  will  not  be  braved 

By  such  a  worm  as  I  : 
Then  let  me  learn  with  David, 

To  trust  in  the  Most  high  ; 
To  plead  the  name  of  Jesus, 

And  use  the  sling  of  pray'r  ; 

(i)jobxii.2r. 


Hy.  29.  II.  SAMUEL.  35 

Thus  arm'd,  when  Satan  sees  us 
He'll  tremble  and  despair. 

II.  SAMUEL. 

XXIX.  DAVID's  fall  Chap.  xi.  27. 

1  T_T  0^r  David,  when  by  sin  deceiv'd 
JL~1  From  bad  to  worse  went  on  ! 
For  when  the  Holy  Spirit's  griev'd 

Our  strength  and  guard  are  gone* 

2  His  eye  on  Bathsheba  once  fix'd, 

With  poison  fill'd  his  soul ; 
He  ventur'd  on  adultery  next, 
And  murder  crown'd  the  whole. 

3  So  from  a  spark  of  fire  at  rest, 

That  has  not  been  descry 'd  ; 
A  dreadful  flame  has  often  burst, 
And  ravag'd  far  and  wide. 

4  "When  sin  deceives,  it  hardens  too, 

For  tho'  he  vainly  sought 
To  hide  his  crimes  from  public  view, 
Of  God  he  little  thought. 

5  He  neither  would,  nor  could  repent, 

No  true  compunction  felt ; 

^Till  God  in  mercy  Nathan  sent, 

His  stubborn  heart  to  melt. 

6  The  parable  held  forth  a  fact, 

Design'd  his  case  to  shew ; 

But  tho'  the  picture  was  exact, 

Himself  he  did  not  know. 

7  "  Thou  art  the  man,"  the  prophet  said  $ 

That  word  his  slumber  broke  : 
And  when  he  own'd  his  sin,  and  pray'd. 
The  Lord  forgiveness  spoke. 

8  Let  tljose  who  think  they  stand,  beware, 

For  David  stood  before  $ 


36  II.  SAMUEL.  Bk.  J 

Nor  let  the  fallen  soul  despair 
For  mercy  can  restore* 

XXX.     Is  this  thy  kindness  to  thy  friend* 
Chap.  xvi.  17. 

1  T)  OOR,  weak,  and  worthless  though  I  am, 
Jl      I  have  a  rich  Almighty  Friend  ; 
Jesus,  the  Saviour,  is  his  name, 

He  freely  loves  and  without  end, 

2  He  ransom'd  me  from  hell  with  blood, 
And  by  his  pow'r  my  foes  controul'd  ; 
He  found  me  wand'ring  far  from  God, 
And  brought  me  to  his  chosen  fold. 

3  He  cheers  my  heart,  my  want  supplies, 
And  says  that  I  shall  shortly  be 
Enthron'd  with  him  above  the  skies  : 
Oh  !  what  a  friend  is  Christ  to  me. 

4  But  ah  !  my  inmost  spirit  mourns, 
And  well  my  eyes  with  tears  may  swim, 
To  think  of  my  perverse  returns  ; 

I've  been  a  faithless  friend  to  him. 

5  Often  my  gracious  Friend  I  grieve, 
Neglect,  distrust,  and  disobey, 
And  often  Satan's  lies  believe, 
Sooner  than  all  rny  Friend  can  say. 

6  He  bids  me  always  freely  come, 
And  promises  what  e'er  I  ask  : 

But  I  am  strait'ned,  cold,  and  dumb, 
And  count  my  privilege  a  task. 

7  Before  the  world  that  hates  his  cause, 

My  treacherous  heart  has  throbb'd  with  shame, 
Loth  to  forego  the  world's  applause, 
I  hardly  dare  avow  his  name. 

8  Sure  were  not  I  most  vile  and  base^ 
I  could  not  thus  my  friend  requited 
And  were  not  he  the  God  of  grace, 
He'd  frown  and  spurn  me  from  his  sight. 


Hy.   31,  J.KINGS,  3? 

I  KINGS. 
XXXI.  Ask  what  I  shall  give  thee.  Chap.  iii.  5< 

1  S^i  OME,  my  soul,  thy  suit  prepare, 
v_y   Jesus  loves  to  answer  pray'r  ; 
He  himself  has  bid  you  pray, 
Therefore  will  not  say  thee  nay, 

2  Thou  art  coming  to  a  King  (1), 
Large  petitions  with  thee  bring ; 
For  his  grace  and  power  are  such? 
None  can  ever  ask  too  much. 

5  With  my  burden  I  begin, 
Lord,  remove  this  load  of  sin  ! 
Let  thy  blood,  for  sinners  spilt, 
Set  my  conscience  free  from  guilt. 

4  Lord!  I  come  to  thee  for  rest, 
Take  possession  of  my  breast ; 
There  thy  blood-bought  right  maintain, 
And  -without  a  rival  reign. 

5  As  the  image  in  the  glass 
Answers  the  beholder's  face  ; 
Thus  unto  my  heart  appear, 
Print  thine  own  resemblance  there* 

6  While  I  am  a  pilgrim  here, 
Let  thy  love  my  spirit  cheer ; 

As  my  guide,  my  guard,  my  Friend*, 
Lead  me  to  my  journey's  end. 

7  Shew  me  what  I  have  to  do, 
Ev'ry  hour  my  strength  renew  : 
Let  me  live  a  life  or  faith, 

Let  me  die  thy  people's  death. 

XXXII.  Another* 

1    TF  Solomon  for  wisdom  pray'd, 

-A  The  Lord  before  had  made  him  wise  j 

<1)  Psalm  Ixxxi.  10. 

D 


.33  I.  KINGS.  Bk.  I. 

Else  he  another  choice  had  made, 
And  ask  for  what  the  worldlings  prize. 

2  Thus  he  invites  the  people  still, 

He  first  instructs  them  how  to  choose  ; 
Then  bids  them  ask  whate'er  they  will, 
Assur'd  that  he  will  not  refuse. 

3  Our  wishes  would  our  ruin  prove, 
Could  we  our  wretched  choice  obtain  ; 
Before  we  feel  the   Saviour's  love, 
Kindle  our  love  to  him  again. 

.4  But  when  our  hearts  perceive  his  worth, 
Desires,  till  then  unknown,  take  place  ; 
Our  spirits  cleave  no  more  to  earth, 
But  pant  for  holiness  and  grace. 

5  And  dost  thou  say,  "  Ask  what  thou  wilt  ? 
Lord,  J  would  seize  the  golden  hour ; 

I  pray  to  be  releas'd  from  guilt, 

And  freed  from  sin  and  Satan's  power. 

6  More  of  thy  presence,  Lord,  impart, 
More  of  thine  image  let  me  bear  ; 
Erect  thy  throne  within  my  heart, 
And  reign  without  a  rival  there. 

7  Give  me  to  read  my  pardon  seal'd, 
And  from  thy  joy  to  draw  my  strength  ; 
To  have  thy  boundless  love  reveal'd 

In  all  its  height,  and  breadth,  and  length. 
S   Grant  these  requests,  I  ask  no  more, 
But  to  thy  care  the  rest  resign  ; 
Sick,  or  in  health,  or  rich,  or  poor, 
All  shall  be  well  if  thou  art  mine. 

XXXIII.  Another. 

1    T>  EHOLD  the  throne  of  grace  ! 

-O   The  promise  calls  me  near  ; 
There  Jesus  shews  a  smiling  face, 

And  waits  to  answer  pray'r. 


Hy.  34.  I.  KINGS.  39 

&  That  rich  atoning  blood, 

Which  sprinkled  round  I  see  ; 
Provides  for  those  who  come  to  God, 

An  all-prevailing  plea. 

3  My  soul  ask  what  thou  wilt, 
Thou  canst  not  be  too  bold  ; 

Since  his  own  blood  for  thee  he  spilt, 
What  else  can  he  withhold. 

4  Beyond  thy  utmost  wants 
His  love  and  pow'r  can  bless ; 

To  praying  souls  he  always  grants, 
More  than  they  can  express. 

5  Since  'tis  the  Lord's  command, 
My  mouth  I  open  wide  ; 

Lord,  open  thou  thy  bounteous  hand, 
That  I  may  be  supply'd. 

6  Thine  image  Lord  bestow, 
Thy  presence  and  thy  love  : 

I  ask  to  serve  thee  here  below, 
And  reign  with  thee  above. 

7  Teach  me  to  live  by  faith, 
Conform  my  will  to  thine ; 

Let  me  victorious  be  in  death, 
And  then  in  glory  shine. 

8  If  thou  these  blessings  give, 
And  wilt  my  portion  be  ; 

Cheerful  the  world's  poor  toys  I  leave 
To  them  who  know  not  thee. 

XXXIV.  %ueen  ofSHEBA.  Chap,  x.  1—9. 

1    TT*  ROM  Sheba  a  distant  report 
JC      Of  Solomon's  glory  and  fame, 
Invited  the  queen  to  his  court, 
But  all  was  outdone  when  she  came  ; 
She  cry'd,  with  a  pleasing  surprise, 
When  first  she  before  him  appear'd, 


W  I.  KINGS.  Bk.  1 

"  How  much,  what  I  see  with  my  eyes, 
"  Surpasses  the  rumour  I  heard  !" 

2;  When  once  to  Jerusalem  come, 

The  treasure  and  train  she  had  brought  ; 
The  wealth  she  possessed  at  home, 
No  longer  had  place  in  her  thought : 
His  house,  his  attendants,  his  throne, 
All  struck  her  with  wonder  and  awe  : 
The  glory  of  Solomon  shone, 
In  every  object  she  saw* 

3  But  Solomon  most  she  admir'd, 
"Whose  spirit  conducted  the  whole  ; 
His  wisdom,  which  God  had  inspir'cl 
His  bounty  and  greatness  of  soul; 
Of  all  the  hard  questions  she  putK 
A.  ready  solution  he  shew'd  > 
Exceeded  her  wish  and  her  suit, 
And  more  than  she  ask'd  him  bestowM. 

'   Thus  I  when  the  Gospel  proclaim'd, 
The  Saviour's  great  name  in  my  ears, 
The  wisdom  for  which  he's  so  fam'd 
The  love  which  to  sinners  he  bears  • 
1  long'd,  and  I  was  not  denyM, 
That  I  in  his  presence  might  bow  ; 
I  saw,  and  transported  I  cry'd 
"  A  greater  than  Solomon  Thou  !" 

5  My  conscience  no  comfort  could  find, 
By  doubt  and  hard  questions  oppos'd  : 
But  He  restored  peace  to   my  mind, 
And  answered  each  doubt  I  propos'd  : 
Beholding  me  poor  and  distress'd, 
His  bounty  supply'd  all  my  wants  ; 
My  pray'r  could  have  never  expressed, 
So  much  as  this  Solomon  grants. 

6  I  heard,  and  was  slow  to  believe, 
But  now  with  my  eyes  I  behold, 

Much  more  than  my  heart  could  conceive,. 
Or  language  could  ever  have  told  ; 


Hy.  35.  I.  KINGS.  41 

How  happy  thy  servants  must  be, 
Who  always  before  thee  appear ! 
Vouchsafe,  Lord,  this  blessing  to  me, 
I  find  it  is  good  to  be  here. 

XXXV.  ELIJAH  fed  by  Ravens.  (1)  Chap, 
xvi.  6. 

1  XT*  LIJAH's  example  declares, 

J  A  Whatever  distress  may  betide  $ 
The  saints  may  commit  all  their  cares 
To  him  who  will  surely  provide  : 
When  rain  long  withheld  from  the  earth 
Occasion'd  a  famine  of  bread  ; 
The  prophet  secur'd  from  the  dearth, 
By  ravens  was  constantly  fed. 

2  More  likely  to  rob  than  to  feed 
Were  ravens  who  live  upon  prey  ; 
But  when  the  Lord's  people  have  need, 
His  goodness  will  find  out  a  way ; 

This  instance  to  those  may  seem  strange,  • 
Who  know  not  how  faith  can  prevail  ; 
But  sooner  all  nature  shall  change, 
Than  one  of  God's  promises  fail. 

3  Nor  is  it  a  singular  case, 
The  wonder  is  often  renew'd  ; 
And  many  can  say  to  his  praise, 

He  sends  them  by  Ravens  their  food  : 
Thus  worldlings,  though  ravens  indeed, 
Though  greedy  and  selfish  their  mind, 
If  God  has  a  servant  to  feed, 
Against  their  own  wills  can  be  kind. 

4  Thus  Satan,  that  raven  unclean, 
Who  croaks  in  the  ears  of  the  saints  $ 
Compell'd  by  a  pow'r  unseen, 
Administers  oft  to  their  wants. 

(t)  Book  III.  Hymn  47. 
J>  2 


4&  I.  KINGS.  Bk.  I. 

God  teaches  them  how  to  find  food 
From  all  the  temptations  they  feel  ; 
This  raven,  who  thirsts  for  my  blood, 
Has  help'd  me  to  many  a  meal. 

5  How  safe  and  how  happy  are  they, 
Who  on  the  good  Shepherd  rely  ! 

He  gives  them  out  strength  for  their  day, 
Their  wants  he  will  surely  supply  : 
He  ravens  and  lions  can  tame, 
411  creatures  obey  his  command  | 
Then  let  me  rejoice  in  his  name, 
And  leave  all  my  cares  in  his  hand. 

XXXTI.      The  meal  and  cruse  of  oil.     Chap, 

xvii.   16. 
t    T>  Y  the  poor  widow's  oil  and  meal 
JLJ  Elijah  was  sustained  ; 
Though  small  the  stock,  it  lasted  well, 
For  God  the  store  maintained. 
I  It  seem'd  as  if  from  day  to  day, 
The}-  were  to  eat  and  die. 
But  still,  though  in  a  secret  way, 
He  sent  a  fresh  supply. 
3  Thus  to  his  poor  he  stilt  will  give 
Just  for  the  present  hour ; 
But  for  to-morrow  they  must  live 
Upon  his  word  and  powV. 
I  No  barn  or  storehouse  they  possess, 
On  which  they  can   depend  ; 
Yet  have  no  cause  to  fear  distress, 
For  Jesus  is  their  friend. 
J  Then  let  not  doubts  your  mind  assail, 
Remember,.  God  has  said, 
u  The  cruse  and  barrel  shall  not  fail, 
My  people  shall  be  fed." 

6  And  thus,  though  faint  it  often  seems? 

He  keeps  their  grace  alive  ', 


Hy.  37.  II.  KINGS.  43 

Supply'd  by  his  refreshing  streams. 
Their  dying  hopes  revive. 
7  Though  in  ourselves  we  have  no  stock, 
The  Lord  is  nigh  to  save  j 
His  door  flies  open  when  we  knock, 
And  'tis  but  ask  and  have. 


II.  KINGS. 

XXXVII.  JERICHO;  Or,  the  waters  healed, 
Chap,  ii.  19 — 22. 

1  'TpHOUGH  Jericho  pleasantly  stood, 

A    And  loolTd  like  a  promising  soil ; 
The  harvest  produc'd  little  food, 
To  answer  the  husbandman's  toil. 
The  water  some  property  had, 
Which  poisonous  prov'd  to  the  ground  ; 
The  springs  were  corrupted  and  bad, 
The  streams  spread  a  barrenness  round. 

2  But  soon  by  the  cruse  and  the  salt, 
Prepar'd  by  Elisha's  command  ; 
The  water  was  cur'd  of  its  fault, 
And  Plenty  enriched  the  land  : 
An  emblem  sure  this  of  the  grace 
On  fruitless  dead  sinners  bestow'd  | 
For  man  is  in  Jericho's  case, 

Till  cur'd  by  the  mercy  of  God. 

3  How  noble  a  creature  he  seems  ! 
What  knowledge,  invention,  and  skill ! 
How  large  and  extensive  his  schemes  1 
How  much  can  he  do  if  he  will ! 

His  zeal  to  be  learned  and  wise, 
Will  yield  to  no  limits  or  bars  ; 
He  measures  the  earth  and  the  skies. 
And  numbers  and  marshals  the  stars. 


41  II.  KINGS.  Bk.  I. 

4  Yet  still  he  is  barren  of  good  ; 
In  vain  are  his  talents  and  art ; 
Kor  sin  has  infected  his  blood, 

And  poison'd  the  streams  of  his  heart  : 
Tho'  cockatrice  eggs  he  can  hatch  (1)  ; 
Or,  spider  like,  cobwebs  can  weave  ; 
'Tis  madness  to  labour  and  watch 
For  what  will  destroy  or  deceive. 

5  But  grace,  like  the  salt  in  the  cruse, 
When  cast  in  the  spring  of  the  soul ; 
A  wonderful  change  will  produce, 
Diffusing  new  life  thro'  the  whole  : 
The  wilderness  blooms  like  the  rose, 
The  heart  which  was  vile  and  abhorr'd  ; 
Now  fruitful  and  beautiful  grows, 

The  garden  and  joy  of  the  Lord. 

XXXV11I.  NAAMAN.  Chap.  v.  14. 

1  T>  EFORE  Elisha's  gate 

JD  The  Syrian  leper  stood, 
But  could  not  brook  to  wait, 

He  deem'd  himself  too  good  : 
He  thought  the  prophet  would  attend, 
And  not  to  him  a  message  send. 

2  Have  I  this  journey  come, 

And  will  he  not  be  seen  ? 
I  were  as  well  at  home, 

Would  washing  make  me  clean  ; 
Why  must  I  wash  in  Jordan's  flood  ? 
Damascus'  rivers  are  as  good. 
4  Thus  by  his  foolish  pride 

He  almost  missM  a  cure, 
Howe'er  at  length  he  try'd, 

And  found  the  method  sure  ; 
Soon  as  his  pride  was  brought  to  yield, 
His  Leprosy  was  quickly  heal'd. 

(1)  Isaiah  lix.  5. 


Hy.  39-  II.  KINGS.  45 

4  Leprous  and  proud  as  het 

To  Jesus  thus  I  came  ; 
From  sin  to  set  me  free, 

When  first  I  heard  his  fame  ; 
Surely,  thought  I,  my  pompous  train 
Of  vows  and  tears  will  notice  gain. 

5  My  heart  devis'd  the  way 

Which  I  supposed  he'd  take  ; 
And  when  I  found  delay, 

Was  ready  to  go  back  : 
Had  he  some  painful  task  enjoin'd, 
I  to  performance  seem'd  inclin'd. 
f>  When  by  his  word  he  spake, 

That  fountain  open'd  see  ? 
*«  'Twas  open'd  for  thy  sake, 

"Go  wash  and  thou  art  free  :" 
Oh  I  how  did  my  proud  heart  gainsay, 
I  fear'd  to  trust  this  simple  way. 
T  At  length  I  trial  made, 

When  I  had  much  endur'd 
The  message  I  obey'd,    - 

I  wash'd,  and  I  was  cur'd  : 
Sinners  this  healing  fountain  try, 
Which  cleans'd  a  wretch  so  vile  as  I. 

XXXIX.     The  borrowed  axe.     Chap.  iv.  5,  6\ 
1    r  |  ^HE  prophet's  sons  in  times  of  old, 
JL    Tho'  to  appearance  poor  ; 
Were  rich  without  possessing  gold, 
And  honour'd  though  obscure. 
2>  In  peace  their  daily  bread  they  eat, 
By  honest  labour  earn'd  ; 
While  daily  at  Eiisha's  feet, 

They  grace  and  wisdom  iearn'd, 
3  The  prophet's  presence  cheer'd  their  toil, 
They  watch'd  the  words  he  spoke  :- 


46  II.  KINGS.  Bk.  I. 

Whether  they  turn'd  the  furrow'd  soil, 
Or  fell'd  the  spreading  oak. 

4  Once  as  they  listen' d  to  his  theme, 

Their  conference  was  stopp'd  ; 
For  one  beneath  the  yielding  stream, 
A  borrow'd  axe  had  dropp'd. 

5  u  Alas  it  was  not  mine,  he  said) 

How  shall  1  make  it  good  ?" 
Elisha  heard,  and  when  he  pray'd 
The  iron  swam  like  wood. 

6  If  God  In  such  a  small  affair, 

A  miracle  performs  ; 
It  shews  his  condescending  care 
Of  poor  unworthy  worms. 

7  Tho'  kings  and  nations  in  his  view 

Are  but  as  motes  and  dust ; 
His  eye  and  ear  are  fix'd  on  you 
Who  in  his  mercy  trust. 

8  Not  one  concern  of  ours  is  small, 

If  we  belong  to  him  ; 
To  teach  us  this,  the  Lord  of  all, 
Once  made  the   iron  swim. 
XL.  More  with  us  than  with  them.  Chap.  vi.  16. 

1  A    LAS  !  Elisha's  servant  cry'd, 
jLx.  When  he  the   Syrian  army  spy'd  ; 
But  he  was  soon  released  from  care, 

In  answer  to  the  prophet's  pray'r. 

2  Straightway  he  saw,  with  other  eyes, 
A  greater  army  from  the   skies  ; 

A  fiery  guard  around  the  hill, 
Thus  are  the  saints  preserved  still. 

3  When   Satan  and  his  host  appear, 
Like  him  of  old,  I  faint  and  fear; 
Like  him,  by  faith,  with  joy  1  see, 
A  greater  host  engag'd  for  me. 


Hy.  41.  II.  KINGS.  47 

4  The  saints  espouse  ray  cause  by  pray'r, 
Their  angels  make  my  soul  their  care  ; 
Mine  is  the  promise  seal'd  with  blood, 
And  Jesus  lives  to  make  it  good. 


I.  CHRONICLES. 

XLI.  Faith's  review  and  expectation* 
Chap.  xvii.  16,  17. 

AMAZING  grace !  (how  sweet  the  sound) 
That  sav'd  a  wretch  like  me  ! 
I  once  was  lost,  but  now  am  found, 

Was  blind,  but  now  I  see. 
'Twas  grace  that  taught  my  heart  to  fear, 

And  grace  my  fears  reliev'd  ; 
How  precious  did  that  grace  appear, 

The  hour  I  first  believ'd  ! 
Thro'  many  dangers,  toils,  and  snares, 

I  have  already  come ; 
7Tis  grace  has  brought  me  safe  thus  far? 

And  grace  will  lead  me  home. 
The  Lord  has  promis'd  good  to  me, 

His  word  my  hope  secures  ; 
He  will  my  shield  and  portion  be, 

As  long  as  life  endures. 
Yes,  when  this  flesh  and  heart  shall  fail, 

And  mortal  life  shall  cease  ; 
I  shall  possess,  within  the  vail, 

A  life  of  joy  and  peace. 
The  earth  shall  soon  dissolve  like  snow, 

The  sun  forbear  to  shine  ; 
But  God  who  call'd  me  here  below, 

Will  be  for  ever  mine. 


4$  NEIIEMIAH.  Bk.  1 

NEHEMIAH. 

XLII.    The  joy  of  the  LORD  is  your  strength. 

Chap.  ix.  10. 

1  T  0Y  is  a  fruit  that  will  not  grow 
J    In  nature's  barren  soil ; 

All  we  can  boast  till  Christ  we  know, 
Is  vanity  and  toil. 

2  But  where  the  Lord  had  planted  grace. 
And  made  his  glories  known  ; 

There  fruits  of  heav'nly  joy  and  peace 
Are  found,  and  there  alone. 

3  A  bleeding  Saviour  seen  by  faith, 
A  sense  of  pard'ning  love  ; 

A  hope  that  triumphs  over  death, 
Give  joys  like  those  above. 

4  To  take  a  glimpse  within  the  vail, 
To  know  that  God  is  mine  ; 

\re  springs  of  joy  that  never  fail, 

Unspeakable  !  divine  ! 
^  These  are  the  joys  which  satisfy, 

And  sanctify  the  mind  ; 
Which  make  the  spirit  mount  on  high, 

And  leave  the  world  behind. 
6  No  more,  believers,  mourn  your  lot, 

But  if  you  are  the  Lord's  ; 
Hesign  to  them  that  know  him  not, 

Such  joys  as  earth  affords. 


JOB. 
XLIII.  0  that  Izvere  as  hi  months  past  I 
Chap.  xxix.  2. 
WEET  was  the  time  when  first  1  feU 
The  Saviour's  pard'ning  blood 


■s 


Hy.  44.  JOB,  49 

Apply'd,  to  cleanse  my  soul  from  guilt, 

And  bring  me  home  to  God. 
2  Soon  as  the  morn  the  light  reveal'd, 

His  praises  tun'd  my  tongue  ; 
And  when  the  ev'ning  shades  prevailed, 

His  love  was  all  my  song. 
S  In  vain  the  tempter  spread  his  wiles, 

The  world  no  more  could  charm ; 
I  liv'd  upon  my  Saviour's  smiles, 

And  lean'd  upon  his  arm* 

4  In  pray'r  my  soul  drew  near  the  Lord, 
And  saw  his  glory  shine  ; 

And  when  I  read  his  holy  word, 
I  call'd  each  promise  mine. 

5  Then  to  his  saints  I  often  spoke5 
Of  what  his  love  had  done ; 

But  now  my  heart  is  almost  broke, 
For  all  my  joys  are  gone. 

6  Now  when  the  evening  shade  prevails, 
My  soul  in  darkness  mourns  : 

And  when  the  morn  the  light  reveals, 
No  light  to  me  returns. 

7  My  pray'rs  arenow  a  chatt'ring  noise* 
For  Jesus  hides  his  face  ; 

1  read,  the  promise  meets  my  eyes, 
But  will  not  reach  my  case. 

8  Now  Satan  threatens  to  prevail, 
And  make  my  soul  his  prey : 

Yet,  Lord,  thy  mercies  cannot  fail, 
O  come  without  delay. 

XLIV.    The  change.  (1.) 

2  QjAVIQUH,  shine  and  cheer  my  souL 
O    Bid  my  dying  hopes  revive  $ 

Make  my  wounded  spirit  whole, 

(1)  Book  ii.  Hvmn  34.  and  Bookiii,  Hymn  85, 
E 


50  JOB.  Bk.  I. 

Far  away  the  tempter  drive  : 
Speak  the  word  and  set  me  free, 
Let  me  live  alone  to  thee. 

2  Shall  I  sigh  and  pray  in  vain, 
Wilt  thou  still  refuse  to  hear  $ 
Wilt  thou  not  return  again, 
Must  I  yield  to  black  despair  ? 

Thou  hast  taught  my  heart  to  pray, 
Canst  thou  turn  thy  face  away  ? 

3  Once  I  thought  my  mountain  strong, 
Firmly  fix'd  no  more  to  move  ; 
Then  thy  grace  was  all  my  song, 
Then  my  soul  was  fill'd  with  love  : 

Those  were  happy  golden  days, 
Sweetly  spent  in  pray'r  and  praise. 

4  When  my  friends  have  said,  "  Beware, 
Soon  or  late  you'll  find  a  change ;" 

I  could  see  no  cause  for  fear, 
Vain  their  caution  seem'd,  and  strange  : 
Not  a  cloud  obscur'd  my  sky, 
Could  I  think  a  tempest  nigh  ? 

5  Little,  then,  myself  I  knew, 
Little  thought  of  Satan's  pow'r  ; 
Now  I  find  their  words  were  true, 
Now  I  feel  the  stormy  hour ! 

Sin  has  put  my  joys  to  flight, 

Sin  has  chang'd  my  day  to  night. 

6  Satan  asks,  and  mocks  my  woe, 

"  Boaster,  where  is  uow  your  God  ?M 
Silence,  Lord,  this  cruel  foe, 
Let  him  know  I'm  bought  with  blood  : 
Tell  him,  since,  I  know  thy  name, 
Though  I  change,  thou  art  the  same. 


Hy.  46,  PSALMS.  51 

PSALMS. 

XLV.  Pleading  for  mercy.  Psalm  vi. 

1  TN  mercy,  not  in  wrath,  rebuke 
JL  Thy  feeble  worm,  my  God  ! 

My  spirit  dreads  thine  angry  look, 
And  trembles  at  thy  rod. 

2  Have  mercy,  Lord,,  for  1  am  weak, 
Regard  my  heavy  groans  ; 

0  let  thy  voice  of  comfort  speak, 
And  heal  my  broken  bones  ! 

3  By  day,  my  busy  beating  head 
Is  fill'd  with  anxious  fears  ; 

By  night,  upon  my  restless  bed, 
I  weep  a  flood  of  tears. 

4  Thus  I  sit  desolate  and  mourn, 
Mine  eyes  grew  dull  with  grief; 

How  long,  my  Lord,  ere  thou  return, 
And  bring  my  soul  relief  ? 

5  O  come  and  shew  thy  power  to  save.. 
And  spare  my  fainting  breath  ; 

For  who  can  praise  thee  in  the  grave, 
Or  sing  thy  name  in  death  ? 

6  Satan,  my  cruel  envious  foe, 
Insults  me  in  my  pain  t 

He  smiles  to  see  me  brought  so  low, 
And  tells  me  hope  is  vain. 

7  But  hence,  thou  enemy,  depart ! 
Nor  tempt  me  to  despair, 

My  Saviour  comes  to  cheer  my  heart, 
The  Lord  has  heard  my  pray'r. 

XLVI.  None  upon  earth  I  desire  besides  thee* 
Psal.  lxxiii.  25. 

1  TJ  O W  tedious  and  tasteless  the  hours., 
*  JlX  When  Jesus  no  longer  I  see  \ 


52  PSALMS.  Bk.  I. 

Sweet  prospects,  sweet  birds,  and  sweet 
flow'rs, 

Have  lost  all  their  sweetness  with  me  ; 
The  mid-summer  sun  shines  but  dim,    , 

The  fields  strive  in  vain  to  look  gay  ; 
But  when  I  am  happy  in  him, 

December's  as  pleasant  as  May, 

2  His  name  yields  the  richest  perfume, 
And  sweeter  than  music  his  voice  ; 

His  presence  disperses  my  gloom, 
And  makes  all  within  me  rejoice  : 

I  should,  were  he  always  thus  nigh, 
Have  nothing  to  wish  c»  to  fear  : 

JVo  mortal  so  happy  as  I, 

My  summer  would  last  ail  the  year. 

3  Content  with  beholding  his  face, 
My  all  to  his  pleasure  resign'd  ; 

No  changes  of  season  or  place, 

Would  make  any  change  in  my  mind  : 

While  bless'd  with  a  sense  of  his  love, 
A  palace  a  toy  would  appear ; 

And  prisons  would  palaces  prove, 
If  Jesus  would  dwell  with  me  there. 

4  Dear  Lord,  if  indeed  I  am  thine, 
If  thou  art  my  sun  and  my  song  ; 

Say,  why  do  I  languish  and  pine, 
And  why  are  my  winters  so  long  ? 

0  drive  these  dark  clouds  from  my  sky,. 
Thy  soul-cheering  presence  restore; 

Or  take  me  unto  thee  on  high, 

Where  winter  and  clouds  are  no  more. 

XL VII.    The  believer's  safety.  Psal.  xci. 

1  TNCARNATE  God!  the  soul  that  knows 
J.    Thy  name's  mysterious  powV, 

Shall  dwell  in  undisturb'd  repose, 
Nor  fear  the  trying  hour. 


Hy.  48.  PSALMS.  53 

2  Thy  wisdom,  faithfulness  and  love, 
To  feeble  helpless  worms, 

A  buckler  and  a  refuge  prove, 
From  enemies  and  storms. 

3  In  vain  the  fowler  spreads  his  net, 
To  draw  them  from  thy  care ; 

Thy  timely  call  instructs  their  feet, 
To  shun  the  artful  snare. 

4  When  like  a  baneful  pestilence, 
Sin  mows  its  thousands  down  ; 

On  every  side  without  defence, 
Thy  grace  secures  thine  own. 

5  No  midnight  terrors  haunt  their  bed^ 
No  arrow  wounds  by  day ; 

Unhurt  on  serpents  they  shall  tread, 
If  found  in  duty's  way. 

6  Angels,  unseen,  attend  the  saints, 
And  bear  them  in  their  arms ; 

To  cheer  the  spirit  when  it  faints, 
And  guard  the  life  from  harms. 

7  The  angel's  Lord,  himself  is  nigh, 
To  them  that  love  his  name  ; 

Heady  to  save  them  when  they  cry, 
And  put  their  foes  to  shame. 

8  Crosses  and  changes  are  their  lot, 
Long  as  they  sojourn  here  ; 

But  since  their  Saviour  changes  not, 
What  Have  the  saints  to  fear  ? 

XLV1II.  Another. 

\  f  I  ^HAT  man  no  guard  or  weapons  needs? 
X     Whose  heart  the  blood  of  Jesus 
knows  ; 
But  safe  may  pass,  if  duty  leads, 
Through  burning  sands  or  mountain  snows , 


54  PSALMS.  Bk.  1. 

2  Releas'd  from  guilt  he  feels  no  fear ; 
.Redemption  is  his  shield  and  tovv'r ; 
He  sees  his  Saviour  always  near 
To  help,  in  ev'ry  trying  hour. 

3  Though  I  am  weak  and  Satan  strong, 
And  often  to  assault  me  tries  ; 
When  Jesus  is  my  shield  and  song, 
Abash'd  the  wolf  before  me  flies. 

4  His  love  possessing  I  am  blest, 
Secure  whatever  change  may  come; 
Whether  I  go  to  East  or  West, 
With  him  1  still  shall  be  at  home. 

5  If  plac'd  beneath  the  northern  pole, 
Though  winter  reigns  with  rigour  there  ; 

*    His  gracious  beams  would  cheer  my  soul, 
And  make  a  spring  throughout  the  year. 

6  Or  if  the  desart's  sun-burnt  soil, 

My  lonely  dwelling  e'er  should  prove  ; 
His  presence  would  support  my  toil, 
Whose  smile  is  life,  whose  voice  is  love. 

XLIX.  lie  led  them  a  right  zvay.  Psal.  cvii.  7. 

1    TI7HEN  Israel  was  from  Egypt  freed, 
V  V    The  Lord,  who  brought  them  out, 
Hfclp'd  them  in  ev'ry  time  of  need, 
But  led  them  round  about  (l). 
I  To  enter  Canaan  soon  they  hop'd, 
But  quickly  chang'd  their  mind  ; 
When  the  Red-sea  their  passage  stopp'd. 
And  Pharaoh  march'd  behind. 
3  The  desart  fill'd  them  with  alarms, 
For  water  and  for  food  ; 
And  Amalek,  by  force  of  arms, 
To  check  their  progress  stood.. 

(1)  Exodus  siii.  17. 


Hy.50.  PSALMS.  55 

4  They  often  murmur'd  by  the  way, 

Because  they  judg'd  by  sight,* 
But  were  at  length  constrain'd  to  say 
The  Lord  had  them  right. 

5  In  the  Red-sea  that  stopp'd  them  first, 

Their  enemies  were  drown'd  ; 
The  rocks  gave  water  for  their  thirst, 
And  mamia  spread  the  ground. 

6  By  fire  and  cloud  their  way  was  shown 

Across  the  pathless  sands ; 
And  Amalek  was  overthrown, 
By  Moses'  lifted  hands. 

7  The  way  was  right  their  hearts  to  prove? 

To  make  God's  glory  known  ; 
And  show  his  wisdom,  pow'r  and  love, 
Engag'd.to  save  his  own. 

8  Just  so  the  true  believer's  path, 

Through  many  dangers  lies  ; 
Though  dark  to  sense,  'tis  right  to  faith. 
And  leads  us  to  the  skies. 

L.  What  shall  I  render.  (1.)  Psal.  cxvi.  12, 13 

1  JL1  ^^  mercies,  countless  as  the  sands 
Jl     Which  daily  I  receive 

From  Jesus,  My  Redeemer's  hands, 
My  soul,  what  canst  thou  give  ? 

2  Alas  \  for  such  a  heart  as  mine, 

What  can  I  bring  him  forth  ? 
My  best  is  stain'd  and  dy'd  with  sin, 
My  all  is  nothing  worth. 

3  Yet  this  acknowledgment  I'll  make. 

For  all  he  has  bestow'd  ; 
Salvation's  sacred  cup  I'll  take, 
And  call  upon  my  God. 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  67, 


56  PSALMS.  Bk.  I. 

4  The  best  returns  for  one  like  me, 

So  wretched  and  so  poor  ; 

Is  from  his  gifts  to  draw  a  plea, 

And  ask  him  still  for  more. 

5  I  cannot  serve  him  as  I  ought, 

No  works  have  I  to  boast ; 
Yet  would  I  glory  in  the  thought 
That  I  shall  owe  him  most. 

LI.    Dwelling   in   Mesech.  Psal.    cxx.    5 — 7* 

1  TIC  THAT  a  mournful  life  is  mine, 

V  V    Fill'd  with  crosses,  pains,  and  cares  * 
Ev'ry  work  defil'd  with  sin, 
Ev'ry  step  beset  with  snares  ! 

2  If  alone  I  pensive  sit, 

I  myself  can  hardly  bear ; 
If  1  pass  along  the  street, 
Sin  and  riot  triumph  there. 

3  Jesus !  how  my  heart  is  pain'd, 
How  it  mourns  for  souls  deceiv'd  \ 
When  I  hear  thy  name  profan'd, 
"When  I  see  thy  Spirit  griev'd  ! 

4  "When  thy  childrens'  griefs  I  view, 
Their  distress  becomes  my  own; 
All  I  hear,  or  see,  or  do, 

Makes  me  tremble,  weep,  and  groan, 

5  Mourning  thus  I  long  had  been, 
When  I  heard  my  Saviour's  voice ; 
M  Thou  hast  cause  to  mourn  for  sin. 
But  in  me  thou  may'st  rejoice." 

6  This  kind  word  dispelled  my  grief, 
Put  to  silence  my  complaints  ; 
Though  of  sinners  I'm  the  chief, 
He  has  rank'd  me  with  his  saints. 

7  Tho'  constrain'd  to  dwell  a  while 
Where  the  wicked  strive  and  brawl ; 


Hr.  52.  PROVERBS.  57 

Let  them  frown,  so  he  but  smile, 
Heav'n  will  make  amends  for  all. 

8  There,  believers,  we  shall  rest, 
Free  from  sorrow,  sin  and  fears  $ 
Nothing  there  our  peace  molest, 
Through  eternal  rounds  of  years. 

9  Let  as  then  the  fight  endure, 
See  our  Captain  looking  down  ; 
He  wiil  make  the  conquest  sure, 
And  bestow  the  promis'd  crown, 


PROVERBS. 

LII.   (c.)  Wisdom.  Chap.  viii.  23— .31. 
t    T7,  RE  God  had  built  the  mountains., 
Ha  Or  rais'd  the  fruitful  hills  ; 
Before  he  fill'd  the  fountains 
That  feed  the  running  rills  $ 
In  me,  from  everlasting, 
The  wonderful  I  AM,      - 
Found  pleasures  never  wasting, 
And  wisdom  is  my  name. 

2  When,  like  a  tent  to  dwell  in, 
He  spread  the  skies  abroad  ; 
And  swath'd  about  the  swelling 
Of  ocean's  mighty  flood  ; 

H,  wrought  by  weight  and  measure. 
And  I  was  with  him  then : 
Myself  the  Father's  pleasure, 
And  mine,  the  sons  of  men. 

3  Thus  wisdom's  words  discover 
Thy  glory  and  thy  grace, 
Thou  everlasting  Lover 

Of  our  unworthy  race  ! 

Thy  gracious  eye  survey'd  us 

Ere  stars  were  seen  above  ; 


SB  PROVERBS.  Bk.  I. 

In  wisdom  thou  hast  made  us, 
And  dy'd  for  us  in  love. 
4  And  could'st  thou  be  delighted 
With  creatures  such  as  we  ! 
"Who,  when  we  saw  thee,  slighted 
And  nail'd  thee  to  a  tree  ! 
Unfathomable  wonder, 
And  mystery  divine  ! 
The  voice  that  speaks  in  thunder, 
Says,  4'  Sinner  I  am  thine  !" 

1A\Y.  A  friend  that  stkketh  closer  thana  brother. 
Chap,  xviii.  24. 

1  /""\NE  there  is,  above  all  others, 

V>/  Well  deserves  the  name  of  Friend ; 
His  is  love  beyond  a  brother's, 
Costly,  free,  and  knows  no  end  : 

They  who  one  his  kindness  prove, 

Find  it  everlasting  love  ! 

2  Which  of  all  our  friends  to  save  us 
Could  or  would  have  shed  their  blood ! 
But  our  Jesus  dy'd  to  save  us 
Reconcil'd,  in  him  to  God : 

This  was  boundless  love  indeed ! 
Jesus  is  a  friend  in  need. 

3  Men,  when  rais'd  to  lofty  stations, 
Often  know  their  friends  no  more  ; 
Slight  and  scorn  their  poor  relations, 
Tho'  they  valu'd  them  before  ; 

But  our  Saviour  always  owns 

Those  whom  he  redeem'd  with  groans, 

4  When  he  liv'd  on  earth  abased, 
Friend  of  sinners  was  his  name  ; 
Now,  above  all  glory  raised, 

He  rejoices  in  the  same  : 

Still  he  calls  them  brethren,  friends* 
And  to  all  their  wants  attends. 


Hy.  54.        ECCLESIASTES.  59 

5  Could  we  bear  from  one  another, 
What  he  daily  bears  from  us  ? 

Yet  this  glorious  Friend  and  Brother, 
Loves  us  though  we  treat  him  thus  : 

Tho'  for  good  we  render  ill, 

He  accounts  us  brethren  still.  , 

6  Oh  !  for  grace  our  hearts  to  soften  ! 
Teach  us,  Lord,  at  length  to  love ; 
We,  alas  !  forget  too  often^ 

What  a  friend  we  have  above  : 

But  when  home  our  souls  are  brought, 
We  will  love  thee  as  we  ought. 


ECCLESIASTES. 

L1V.   Vanity  of  life.  (1.)  Chap.  i.  2. 

1  f  I  ^IIE  evils  that  beset  our  path 

X    Who  can  prevent  our  cure  ? 
We  stand  upon  the  brink  of  death, 
When  most  we  seem  secure. 

2  If  we  to-day  sweet  peace  possess, 

It  soon  may  be  withdrawn  ; 
Some  change  may  plunge  us  in  distress, 
Before  to-morrow's  dawn. 
.}  Disease  and  pain  invade  our  health, 
And  find  an  easy  prey  ; 
And  oft,  when  least  expected,  wealth 
Takes  wings  and  flies  away., 

4  A  fever  or  a  blow  can  shake 

Our  wisdom's  boasted  rule  ; 
And  of  the  brightest  genius  make 
A  madman  or  a  fool. 

5  The  gourds,  from  which  we  look  for  fruit, 
Produce  us  only  pain  ; 

(1)  Book  ii.  H}-mn  & 


60  ECCLESIASTES.  Bk.  I. 

A  worm  unseen  attacks  the  root, 
And  all  our  hopes  are  vain. 

6  I  pity  those  who  seek  no  more 

Than  such  a  world  can  give  ; 
Wretched  they  are,  and  blind,  and  poor, 
And  dying  while  they  live. 

7  Since  sin  has  fili'd  the  earth  with  woe, 

And  creatures  fade  and  die  ; 
Lord  wean  our  hearts  from  things  below, 
And  fix  our  hopes  on  high. 

LV.  (c.)  Vanity  of  the  World. 

1  /^  OD  gives  his   mercies  to  be  spent; 
VJT  Your  hoard  will  do  your  soul  no  good  j 
Gold  is  a  blessing  only  lent 

Repaid  by  giving  others  food. 

2  The  world's  esteem  is  but  a  bribe, 
To  buy  their  peace  you  sell  your  own  ; 
The  slave  of  a  vain-glorious  tribe, 

Who  hate  you  while  they  make  you  known. 

3  The  joy  that  vain  amusements  give, 
Oh  !  sad  conclusion  that  it  brings  ! 
The  honey  of  a  clouded  hive, 
Defended  by  a  thousand  stings. 

4<  'Tis  thus  the  world  rewards  the  fools 
That  live  upon  her  treach'rous  smiles  ; 
She  leads  them,  blindfold,  by  her  rules, 
And  ruins  all  whom  she  beguiles. 

5  God  knows  the  thousands  who  go  down 
From  pleasure,  into  endless  woe  ; 
And  with  a  long  despairing  groan, 
Blaspheme  their  Maker  as  they  go. 

3  O  fearful  thought !  be  timely  wise  ; 
Delight  but  in  a  Saviour's  charms  ; 
And  God  shall  take  you  to  the  skies, 
Embrac'd  in  everlasting  arms. 


Hy.  56.        ECCLESIASTES.  61 

LVI.   Vanity  of  the  creature  sanctified* 

1  TTONEY  though  the  bee  prepares, 
JljL  An  envenom'd  sting  he  wears  : 
Piercing  thorns  a  guard  compose 
Round  the  fragrant  blooming  rose. 

2  Where  we  think  to  find  a  sweet, 
Oft  a  painful  sting  we  meet : 
When  the  rose  invites  our  eye, 
We  forget  the  thorn  is  nigh. 

4  Why  are  thus  our  hopes  beguil'd  ; 
Why  are  all  our  pleasures  spoil'd  ? 
Why  do  agony  and  woe 
From  our  choicest  comforts  grow  ? 

4  Sin  has  been  the  cause  of  all, 
?Twas  not  thus  before  the  fall: 
What  but  pain,  and  thorn,  and  sting, 
From  the  root  of  sin  can  spring  ? 

5  Now  with  ev'ry  good  we  find 
Vanity  and  grief  entwin'd  ; 
What  we  feel,  or  what  we  fear, 
All  our  joys  embitter  here. 

6  Yet,  through  the  Redeemer's  love, 
These  afHictions  blessings  prove  ; 
He  the  wounding  stings  and   thorns, 
Into  healing  med'cines  turns. 

7  From  the  earth  our  hearts  they  wean? 
Teach  us  on  his  arm  to  lean  ; 

Urge  us  to  a  throne  of  grace, 
Make  us  seek  a  resting  place. 
S  In  the  mansions  of  our  King 
Sweets  abound  without  a  sting; 
Thornless  there  the  roses  blow. 
And  the  jovs  unmingled  flow, 
F 


62  SOLOMON'S  SONG.  Bk.  I 

SOLOMONs  SONG. 
LTII.   The  name  of  Jesus.  Chap.  i.  3. 
OW  sweet  the  name  of  Jesus  sounds, 


HOW 
In 


It  sooths  his  sorrows,  heals  his  wounds 
And  drives  away  his  fear. 

2  It  makes  the  wounded  spirit  whole, 
And  calms  the  troubled  breast : 
'Tis  manna  to  the  hungry  soul, 
And  to  the  weary  rest. 

4  Dear  name  !  the  rock  on  which  I  build, 
My  shield  and  hiding  place  ; 
My  never  failing  treas'ry  fill'd 
With  boundless  stores  of  grace. 

4  By  thee  my  pray'rs  acceptance  gain, 

Although  with  sin  defil'd  ; 
Satan  accuses  me  in  vain, 
And  I  am  own'd  a  child. 

5  Jesus  !  my  Shepl^erd,  Husband,  Friend, 

My  Prophet,  Priest,  and  King  ; 
My  Lord,  my  Life,  my  Way,  my  End., 
Accept  the  praise  I  bring. 

6  Weak  is  the  effort  of  m>  heart, 

And  cold  my  warmest  thought  ; 
But  did  I  see  thee  as  thou  art, 
I'll  praise  thee  as  I  ought. 

7  'Till  then  I  would  thy  love  proclaim 

With  ev'ry  fleeting  breath  ; 

And  may  the  music  of  thy  name 

Refresh  mv  soul  in  death- 


Hy.  58,  59.  ISAIAH.  6 

ISAIAH. 

LVIII.  (c)  0  Lord  !  I  will  praise  thee. 
Chap.  xii. 

1  T  "Will  praise  thee  ev'ry  day 

JL   Now  thine  anger's  turn'd  away  ! 
Comfortable  thoughts  arise 
From  the  bleeding  sacrifice. 

2  Here  in  the  fair  gospel  field, 
Wels  of  free  salvation  yield 
Streams  of  life,  a  plenteous  store, 
And  my  soul  shall  thirst  no  more. 

3  Jesus  is  become  at  length 

My  salvation  and  my  strength  ; 
And  his  praises  shall  prolong, 
While  I  live,  my  pleasant  song. 

4  Praise  ye,  then,  his  glorious  name, 
Publish  his  exalted  fame  ! 

Still  his  worth  your  praise  exceeds, 
Excellent  are  all  his  deeds. 

5  Raise  again  thy  joyful  sound, 
Let  the  nations  roll  it  round  ! 
Zion  shout,  for  this  is  he, 
God  the  Saviour  dwells  in  thee. 

LIX.  The  Refuge,  River,  and  Rock  of  the 
Church,  Chap,  xxxii.  2. 

t   TJE  who  on  earth  as  man  was  known, 
JL  JL  And  bore  our  sins  and  pains  ! 
Now,  seated  on  th'  eternal  throne, 
The  God  of  glory  reigns. 
2  His  hands  the  wheels  of  nature  guide 
With  an  unerring  skill ; 
And  countless  worlds  extended  wide, 
Obey  his  sovVeign  will. 


64  ISAIAIf.  Bk.  I. 

3  While  harps  unnumber'd  sound  his  praise, 

In  yonder  world  above  ; 
His  saints  on  earth  admire  his  ways, 
And  glory  in  his  love. 
4  His  righteousness  to  faith  reveal'd, 
Wrought  out  for  guilty  worms  ; 
Affords  a  hiding  place  and  shield, 
From  enemies  and  storms. 
3»  This  land,  through  which  his  pilgrims  go, 
Is  desolate    and  dry  ; 
But  streams  of  grace  from  him  o'erflow 
Their  thirst  to  satisfy. 

6  When  troubles,  like  a  burning  sun, 

Beat  heavy  on  their  head  ; 
To  this  almighty  Rock  they  run, 
And  find  a  pleasing  shade. 

7  How  glorious  he  !  how  happy  they 

In  such  a  glorious  friend  ! 
Whose  love  secures  them  all  theway, 
And  crowns  them  at  the  end. 

LX.  Zion  or  the  city  o/^God  (1.)  Chap,  xxxiii. 
20,  21. 

1  ipi  LORIOUS    things    of  thee    are   spo- 
\S    Zion,  city  of  our  God  !  [ken  (2) 
He,  whose  word  cannot  be  broken, 
Fornrd  thee  for  his  own  abode  (3) 

On  the  rock  of  ages  founded  (4) 
What  can  shake  thy  sure  repose  ? 
With  salvation  walls  surrounded  (5) 
Thou  mayst  smile  at  all  thy  foes. 

2  See  !  the  streams  of  living  waters 
Springing  from  eternal  love  (6  ;) 

(1)  Book  II.  Hymn  24.  (2)  Psalm  Ixxxvii.  ^. 

^3)  Psalm  cxxxii.  14.  (4)  Matt.  xvi.  16, 

(5)  Isaiah  xvi.  1.  (6)  Psalm  xlvi.  4. 


Hy.  60.  ISAIAH.  G6 

Well  supply  thy  sons  and  daughters, 
And  all  fear  of  want  remove  ; 
Who  can  faint  while  such  a  river 
Ever  flows  their  thirst  t'assuage  ? 
Grace,  which  like  the  Lord,  the  giver, 
Never  fails  from  age  to  age. 

3  Round  each  habitation  hov'ring, 
See  the  clouds  and  fire  appear  (1)  ! 
For  a  glory  and  a  covVmg 
Shewing  that  the  Lord  is  near  ; 
Thus  deriving  from  their  banner 
Light  by  night  and  shade  by  da)' ; 
Safe  they  feed  upon  the  manna 
Which  he  gives  them  when  they  pray. 

4  Blest  inhabitants  of  Zion, 
Wash'd  in  the  Redeemer's  blood  ! 
Jesus,  whom  their  souls  rely  on, 

Makes  them   kings  and  priests  to  God  (2)  : 

5Tis  his  love  his  people  raises 

Over  self  to  reign  as  kings  ; 

And  as  priests,  his  solemn  praises 

Each  for  a  thank-offering  brings. 

5  Saviour,  if  of  Zion's  city 

I  thro'  grace  a  member  am  ; 
Let  the  world  deride  or  pity, 
I  will  glory  in  thy  name  : 
Fading  is  the  worldling's  pleasure, 
All  his  boasted  pomp  and  show  ; 
Solid  joys  and  lasting  treasures, 
None  but  Zion's  children  know. 

LXI.  Look  unto  me,  and  be  ye  saved.  Chap, 
xlv.  22. 

^      \   S  the  serpent  rais'd  by  Moses  (3) 
XY.  Heal'd  the  burning  serpent's  bite, 

(1)  Isaiah  iv.  5,  6.        (2)  Rev.  i.  6,        (3)  Num.  xxi.  9. 
F   2 


66  ISAIAH.  Bk.  I. 

Jesus  thus  himself  discloses 
To  the  wounded  sinner's  sight ; 
Hear  his  gracious  invitation, 
"  I  have  life  and  peace  to  give, 
I  have  wrought  out  fall  salvation, 
Sinner,  look  to  me  and  live. 

2  Pore  upon  your  sins  no  longer, 
Well  I  know  their  mighty  guilt ; 
But  my  love  than  death  is  stronger, 
I  my  blood  have  freely  spilt : 

Tho'  your  heart  has  long  been  harden'd, 
Look  on  me — it  soft  shall  grow  : 
Past  transgressions  shall  be  pardon-'d. 
And  I'll  wash  you  white  as  snow. 

3  I  have  seen   what  you  were  doing, 
Tho'  you  little  thought  of  me  ; 
You  were  madly  bent  on  ruin, 
But  I  said — It  shall  not  be  : 

You  had  been  for  ever  wretched, 
Had  I  not  espous'd  your  part  ; 
Now  behold  my  arms  outstretched, 
To  receive  you  to  my  heart. 

*  "Well  may  shame,  and  joy,  and  wonder, 

All  your  inward  passions  move  ; 

I  could  crush  thee  with  my  thunder, 

But  I  speak  to  thee  in  love  : 

Set  !  your  sins  are  all  forgiv'n, 

1  have  paid  the  countless  sum  ! 

Now  my  death  has  open'd  heav'n, 

Thither  you  shall  shortly  come." 
i  Dearest  Saviour,  we  adore  thee, 

For  thy  precious  life  and  death  ; 

Melt  each  stubborn  heart  before  thee, 

Give  us  all  the  eye  of  faith  : 

From  the  law's  condemning  sentence* 

To  thy  mercy  we  appeal  j 


Hy.  65.  ISAIAH.  67 

Thou  alone  canst  give  repentance, 
Thou  alone  our  souls  can  heal. 

LXII.   The  good  Physician. 

1  T  TOW  lost  was  my  condition, 
11  Till  Jtsus  made  me 'whole  I 
There  is  but  one  physician 

Can  cure  a  sin-sick  soul  I 
Next  door  to  death  he  found  me, 
And  snatch'd  me  from  the  grave  ; 
To  tell  to  all  around  me, 
His  wondrous  pow'r  to  save. 

2  The   worst  of  all  diseases 
Is  light,  compar'd  with  sin  j 
On  every  part  it  seizes, 
But  rages  most  within  : 

'Tis  palsy,  plague,  and  fever, 
And  madness — all  combin'd  } 
And  none  but  a  believer, 
The  least  relief  can  find. 

3  From  men  great  skill  professing, 
I  thought  a  cure  to  gain  ; 

But  this  prov'd  more   distressing, 
And  added  to  my  pain  : 
Some  said  that  nothing  ail'd  me, 
Some  gave  me  up  for  lost ; 
Thus  every  refuge  fail'd  me, 
And  all  my  hopes  were  cross'd. 

4>  At  length  this  great  Physician, 
How  matchless  is  his  grace  ! 
Accepted  my  petition, 
And  undertook  my  case  : 
First  gave  me  sight  to  view  him, 
For  sin  my  eyes  had  seal'd  ; 
Then  bid  me  look  unto  him  ; 
I-look'd,  and  I  was  heal'd. 


6£  ISAIAH.  Bk.  L 

0  A  dying,  risen  Jesus, 
Seen  by  the  eye  of  faith  ; 

At  once  from  danger  frees  us, 
And  saves  the  soul  from  death  : 
Come  then  to  this  Physician, 
His  help  he'll  freely  give, 
He  makes  no  hard  condition, 
'Tis  only — look  and  live. 

LXIII.   To.  the  afflicted,  tossed  with  tempests 
and  not  comforted.  Chap.  liv.  5.  11. 

1  TQENSIVE,  doubting,  fearful  heart, 
JL      Hear  what  Christ  the  Saviour  says  ; 
Ev'ry  word  should  joy  impart, 
Change  thy  mournings  into  praise  ; 
Yes,  he  speaks,  and  speaks  to  thee, 
May  he  help  thee  to  believe  ! 

Then  thou  presently  will  see, 
Thou  hast  little  cause  to  grieve. 

2  "  Fear  thou  not,  nor  be  ashanvd 
All  thy  sorrows  soon  shall  end ; 

I  who  heav'n  and  earth  have  franvd. 
Am  thy  husband  and  thy  friend  : 
1  the  High  and  holy  One, 
Israel's  God  by  all  ador'd ; 
As  thy  Saviour  will  be  known, 
Thy  Redeemer  and  thy  Lord. 

3  For  a  moment  I  withdrew, 

And  thy  heart  was  fill'd  with  pain  ; 
But  my  mercies  I'll  renew, 
Thou  shalt  soon  rejoice  again  : 
Though  I  seem  to  hide  my  face, 
Very  soon  my  wrath  shall  cease  : 
'Tis  but  for  a  moment's  space, 
Ending  in  eternal  peace. 


Hy.  64.  ISAIAH.  69 

4  When  my  peaceful  bow  appears  (1) 
Painted  on  the  wat'ry  cloud  : 

'Tis  to  dissipate  thy  fears, 

Lest  the  earth  should  be  o'erfiow'd : 

'Tis  an  emblem  too  of  grace, 

Of  my  cov'nant  love  a  sign  : 

Though  the  mountains  leave  their  place, 

Thou  for  ever  shalt  be  mine. 

5  Though  afflicted,  tempest-toss'd, 
Comfortless  a  while  thou  art: 
Do  not  think  thou  can'st  be  lost, 
Thou  art  graven  on  my  heart : 
Ail  thy  wastes  I  will  repair, 
Thou  shalt  be  rebuilt  anew  ; 
And  in  thee  it  shall  appear 
"What  a  God  of  love  can  do." 

LXIV.  (c.)  The  contrite  heart.  Chap.  lvii.  15= 

1    '"pHE  Lord  will  happiness  divine 
JL     On  contrite  hearts  bestow  : 
Then  tell  me  gracious  God,  is  mine 
A  contrite  heart  or  no  ? 
3  I  hear,  but  seem  to   hear  in  vainj 
Insensible  as  steel ; 
If  ought  is  felt,  'tis  only  pain, 
To  find  I  cannot  feel, 

3  I  sometimes  think  myself  inclin'd 

To  love  thee  if  I  could  ; 

But  often  feel  another  mind, 

Averse  to  all  that's  good. 

4  My  best  desires  are  faint  and  few, 

I  fain  would  strive  for  more  ; 
But  when  I  cry,  "  My  strength  renew," 
Seem  weaker  than  before. 

(1)  Gen.  ix.  13,  14; 


70  ISAIAH.  Bk.   I 

5  Thy  saints  are  comforted  I  know, 

And  love  thy  house  of  pray'r ; 
I  therefore  go  where  others  go, 
But  find  no  comfort  there. 

6  O  make  this  heart  rejoice  or  ache  ; 

Decide  this  doubt  for  me  ; 
And  if  it  be  not  broken,  break, 
And  heal  it,  if  it  be. 

LXV.  (c.)   The  future  peace  and  glory  of  the 
Church.  Chap.  lx.  15-— 20. 

1  T  T EAR  what  God  the  Lord  hath  spoken, 
XI  O  my  people  faint  and  few ; 
Comfortless,  afflicted,  broken, 

Fair  abodes  I  build  for  you  : 
Themes  of  heart-felt  tribulation 
Shall  no  more  perplex  your  ways  : 
You  shall  name  your  walls,  Salvation, 
And  your  gates  shall  all  be  praise. 

2  There  like  streams  that  feed  the  garden, 
Pleasures,  without  end  shall  flow  ; 

For  the  Lord,  your  faith  rewarding, 
All  his  bounty  shall  bestow  : 
Still  in  undisturb'd  possession, 
Peace  and  righteousness  shall  reign  ; 
Never  shall  you  feel  oppression, 
Hear  the  voice  of  war  again. 

3  Ye  no  more  your  sons  descending, 
"Waning  moons  no  more  shall  see  ; 
But  your  griefs,  for  ever  ending, 
Find  eternal  noon  in  me  : 

God  shall  rise,  and  shining  o'er  you 
Change  to  day  the  gloom  of  night ; 
He,  the  Lord,  shall  be  your  glorv, 
God  your  everlasting  light, 


Hy.  66.  JEREMIAH.  71 

JEREMIAH. 

i 

LXVI.    Trust  of  the  wicked  and  the  righteous 
compared.  Chap.  xvii.  5 — 8. 

1  A    S  parched  in  the  barren  sands, 
J\.  Beneath  a  burning  sky ; 

The  worthless  bramble  with'ring  stands 
And  only  grows  to  die. 

2  Such  is  the  sinner's  awful  case, 

Who  makes  the  world  his  trust ; 
And  dares  his  confidence  to  place 
In  vanity  and  dust. 

3  A  secret  curse  destroys  his  root, 

And  dries  his  moisture  up  ; 
He  lives  a  while,  who  bears  no  fruit, 
Then  dies  without  a  hope. 

4  But  happy  he  whose  hopes  depend 

Upon  the  Lord  alone ; 
The  soul  that  trusts  in  such  a  friend, 
Can  never  be  overthrown. 

5  Though  gourds  should  wither,  cisterns  break, 

And  creature-comforts  die  \ 
No  change  his  solid  hope  can  shake, 
Or  stop  his  sure  supply. 

6  So  thrives  and  blooms  the  tree  whose  roots 

By  constant  streams  are  fed  ; 
Array'd  in  green,  and  rich  in  fruits, 
It  rears  its  branching  head. 

7  It  thrives  tho'  rain  should  be  deny'd ; 

And  drought  around  prevail ; 
'Tis  planted  by  a  river  side, 
Whose  waters  cannot  fail. 

LXVII.  (c)   JEHOVAH  our  righteousness. 
Chap,  xxiii.  6. 

1    1\ /|"Y  God  how  perfect  are  thy  ways  f 
iVx  But  mine  polluted  are  ; 


72  JEREMIAH.  Bk.  I- 

Sin  twines  itself  about  my  praise, 
And  slides  into  my  prayer. 

2  I  would  speak  what  thou  hast  done 

To  save  me  from  my  sin, 
I  cannot  make  thy  mercies  known, 
But  self-applause  creeps  in. 

3  Divine  desire,  that  holy  flame 

Thy  grace  creates  in  me  ; 
Alas  !  impatience  is  its  name, 
When  it  returns  to  thee. 

4  This  heart  a  fountain  of  vile  thoughts, 

How  does  it  overflow  ? 
While  self  upon  the  surface  floats, 
Still  bubbling  from  below. 
J  Let  others  in  the  gaudy  dress 
Of  fancied  merit  shine  ; 
The  Lord  shall  be  my  righteousness, 
The  Lord  for  ever  mine. 

LXYIIL  (c)  EPHRAIM  repenting. 
Chap.  xxxi.  18 — 20. 

1  TV  /T  Y  God,  till  I  receiv'd  thy  stroke, 
jLVX  How  like  a  beast  was  1 ; 

So  unaccustomed  to  the  yoke, 
So  backward  to  comply. 

2  With  grief  my  just  reproach  I  bear, 

Shame  fills  me  at  the  thought ; 
How  frequent  my  rebellions  were  ! 
What  wickedness  I  wrought  ? 

3  Thy  merciful  restraint  I  scorn'd, 

And  left  the  pleasant  road  ; 
Yet  turn  me,  and  I  shall  be  turn'd, 
Thou  art  the  Lord  my  God. 

4  Is  Ephraim  banish'd  from  my  thoughts} 

Or  vile  in  my  esteem  ,? 


Hy.  69.       LAMENTATIONS. 

No,  saith  the  Lord,  with  all  his  faults, 
I  still  remember  him. 

5  Is  he  a  dear  and  pleasant  child  ? 

Yes,  dear  and  pleasant  still ; 
Tho'  sin  his  foolish  heart  beguil'd 
And  he  withstood  my  will. 

6  My  sharp  rebuke  has  laid  him  low. 

He  seeks  my  face  again  ; 
My  pity  kindles  at  his  woe, 
He  shall  not  seek  in  vain. 


LAMENTATIONS, 


LXIX.  The  Lord  is  my  portion.  Chap.  iii.  24- 

1  ~T?  ROM  pole  to  pole  let  others  roam, 
J       And  search  in  vain  for  bliss  ; 

My  soul  is  satis fy'd  at  home, 
The  Lord  my  portion  is. 

2  Jesus,  who  on  his  glorious  throne 

Rules  heaven,  and  earth,  and  sea  ;  j 
Is  pleas'd  to  claim  me  for  his  own, 
And  give  himself  to  me. 

3  His  person  fixes  all  my  love, 

His  blood  removes  my  fear; 
And  while  he  pleads  for  me  above. 
His  arm  preserves  me  here. 

4  His  word  of  promise  is  my  food. 

His  Spirit  is  my  guide  : 
Thus  daily  is  my  strength  renew'd, 
And  all  my  wants  supply'd  (1). 
5  For  him  I  count  as  gain  each  loss. 
Hisgrace,  for  him,  renown  ; 

ri)  Eooklll.  Hymn  59 


74  EZEKIEL.  Bk.  I 

Well  may  I  glory  in  his  cross, 
While  he  prepares  my  crown. 

6  Let  worldlings  then  indulge  their  boast 
How  much  they  gain  or  spend  ; 
Their  joys  must  soon  give  up  the  ghost, 
But  mine  shall  know  no  end. 


EZEKIEL. 

LXX.  Humbled  and  silenced  by  mercy.  Chap, 
xvi.  63. 

1  /^VNCE  perishing  in  blood  I  lay, 
V/  Creatures  no  help  could  give  ; 

But  Jesus  pass'd  me  in  the  way, 
He  saw,  and  bid  me  live. 

2  Tho'  Satan  still  his  rule  maintain'd, 

And  all  his  arts  employ'd  ; 
That  mighty  word  his  rage  restrain'd, 
I  could  not  be  destroy'd. 

3  4-t  length  the  time  of  love  arriv'd, 

When  I  my  Lord  should  know ; 
Then  Satan  of  his  power  depriv'd, 
"Was  forc'd  to  let  me  go. 
1  O  can  I  e'er  that  day  forget, 
When  Jesus  kindly  spoke  ! 
"  Poor  soul,  my  blood  has  paid  thy  debt, 
And  now  I  break  thy  yoke, 
5  Henceforth  I  take  thee  for  my  own, 
And  give  myself  to  thee  ; 
Forsake  the  idols  thou  hast  known, 
And  yield  thyself  to  me." 
5  Ah,  worthless  heart !  it  promis'd  fair, 
And  said  it  would  be  thine  ; 
I  little  thought  it  e'er  would  dare 
Again  with  idols  join. 


Hy.71,72.         EZEKIEL.  7i 

7  Lord,  dost  thou  such  back-slidings  heal. 
And  pardon  all  that's  past  t 
Sure,  if  I  am  not  made  of  steel, 
Thou  hast  prevail'd  at  last. 
S  My  tongue,  which  rashly  spoke  before, 
This  mercy  will  restrain  ; 
Surely  I  now  shall  boast  no  more. 
Nor  censure,  nor  complain. 

LXXI.   (c)   The  Covenant,  Chap,  xxxvi. 
25 — 28. 

1  nnHE  Lord  proclaims  his  grace  abroad  ; 

JL    Behold  I  change  your  hearts  of  stone  ! 
Each  shall  renounce  his  idol-god, 
And  serve,  henceforth,  the  Lord  alone, 

2  My  grace,  a  flowing  stream  proceeds9 
To  wash  your  filthiness  away  ; 

Ye  shall  abhor  your  former  deeds, 
And  learn  my  statutes  to  obey. 

3  My  truth  the  great  design  insures, 
I  give  myself  away  to  you  s 

You  shall  be  mine,  I  will  be  yours3 
Your  God  unalterably  true. 

4  Yet  not  unsought  or  unimplor'd, 

The  plenteous  grace  shall  I  confer  (l)  ; 
]Vo — your  whole  hearts  shall  seek  the  Lord-,- 
I'll  put  a  praying  spirit  there. 

5  From  the  first  breath  of  life  divine, 
Down  to  the  last  expiring  hour ; 
The  gracious  work  shall  all  be  mine, 
Begun  and  ended  in  my  powV. 

LXXII.  (c.)  JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH. 
Chap,  xlviii.  35, 

IAS  birds  their  infant  brood  protect  (2), 
JLJL  And  spread  their  wings  to  shelter  them  ; 

(1)  Ver.  37.  (2)  Isaiah,  xxxi.  5- 


ftfi  DANIEL.  Bk.  I. 

Thus  saith  the  Lord  to  his  elect, 
"  So  will  I  guard  Jerusalem." 

2  And   what  then  is  Jerusalem, 
This  Jarling  object  of  his  care  ? 
Where  is  its  worth  in  God's  esteem  ? 
"Who  built  it  ? — who  inhabits  there  ? 

3  Jehovah  founded  it  in  blood, 
The   blood  of  his  incarnate  Son ; 
There  dwell  the  saints,  once  foes  to  God, 
The  sinners  whom  he  calls  his  own. 

4  There,  though  besieg'd  on  every  side, 
Yet  much  belov'd  and  guarded  well; 
From  age  to  age  they  have  defy'd 
The  utmost  force  of  earth  and  hell. 

3'  Let  earth  repent,  and  hell  despair, 
This  city  has  a  sure  defence  ; 
Her  name  is  call'd,  The  Lord  is  there, 
And  who  has  power  to  drive  him  thence-. 


DANIEL. 

LXXIII.  The  power  and  triumph  of  faith. 
Chap.  iii.  6. 

SUPPORTED  by  the  word, 
Though  in  himself  a  worm, 

The  servant  of  the  Lord 

Can  wondrous  acts  perform  ; 
Without  dismay  he  boldly  treads 
"Where'er  the  path  of  duty  leads. 
2  The  haughty  king  in  vain, 

With  fury  on  his  brow, 

Believer's  would  constrain 

Tq  golden  gods  to  bow  ; 


Hy.  74.  DANIEL.  T 

The  furnace  could  not  make  them  fear, 
Because  they  knew  the  Lord  was  near, 

3  As  vain  was  the  decree 
Which  charg'd  them  not  to  pray ; 
Daniel  still  bow'd  his  knee, 
And  worshipp'd  thrice  a  day. 

Trusting  in  God  he  fear'd  not  men, 
Though  threaten'd  with  the  lion's  den. 

4  Secure  they  might  refuse 
Compliance  with  such  laws, 
For  what  had  they  to  lose, 
"When  God  espous'd  their  cause  ? 

He  made  the  hungry  lions  crouch, 
Nor  durst  the  fire  his  children  touch. 

5  The  Lord  is  still  the  same, 
A  mighty  shield  and  tow'r, 
And  they  who  trust  his  name 
Are  guided  by  his  pow'r ; 

He  can  the  rage  of  lions  tame, 

And  bear  them  harmless  through  the  flame, 

6  Yet  we  too  often  shrink 
"When  trials  are  in  view  ; 
Expecting  we  must  sink, 
And  never  can  get  through  : 

But  could  we  once  believe  indeed, 
From  all  those  fears  we  should  be  freed. 

LXXIY.  BELSHAZZAR.  Chap.  v.  5—6*> 

1    "P  OOli  sinners  !  little  do  they  think 
Jl     With  whom  they  have  to  do  I 
But  stand  securely  on  the  brink 
Of  everlasting  woe. 

%  Belshazzar  thus,  profanely  bold, 
The  Lord  of  hosts  defy M  ; 
But  vengeance  soon  his  boasts  control\3? 
And  humbled  all  his  pride. 

G2 


78  JONAH.  Bk.  I 

3  He  saw  a  hand  upon  the  wall 

*  (And  trembled  on  his  throne) 
Which  wrote  his  sudden  dreadful  fall 
In  characters  unknown. 

4  Why  should  he  tremble  at  the  view 

Of  what  he  could  not  read  ? 
Foreboding  conscience  quickly  knew 
His  ruin  was  decreed. 

5  See  him  o'erwhelm'd  with  deep  distress  ! 

His  eyes  with  anguish  roll ; 
His  looks,  and  loosen'd  joints,  express 
The  terrors  of  his  soul. 

6  His  pomp  and  music,  guests  and  wine. 

No  more  delight  afford ; 
O  sinner,  e'er  this  case  be  thine, 
Begin  to  seek  the  Lord. 

7  The  law  like  this  hand  writing  stands, 

And  speaks  the  wrath  of  God  (l)  ; 
But  Jesus  answers  its  demands 
And  cancels  it  with  blood. 


JONAH. 

LNXV.   The  gourd.  Chap.  iv.  ?. 

1      \    S  once  for  Jonah,  so  the  Lord, 

Xjl  To  sooth  and  cheer  my  mournful  hours, 
Prepar'd  for  me  a  pleasing  gourd, 
Cool  was  its  shade,  and  sweet  its  fiow'rs. 

3  To  prize  his  gift  was  surely  right, 
But  through  the  folly  of  my  heart, 
It  hid  the  giver  from  my  sight, 
And  soon  my  joy  was  chang'd  to  smart.. 

0)  Colossians,  ii.  14. 


Hy.  76.  ZECHARIAH.  fg 

3  While  I  admired  its  beauteous  form, 
Its  pleasant  shade  and  grateful  fruit ; 
The  Lord  displeas'd,  sent  forth  a  worm-, 
Unseen,  to  prey  upon  the  root. 

4  I  trembled  when  I  saw  it«fade, 

But  guilt  restrain'd  the  murm'ring  word; 
My  folly  I  confess'd,  and  pray'd, 
Forgive  my  sin,  and  spare  my  gourd. 

5  His  wond'rous  love  can  ne'er  be  told, 
He  heard  me,  and  reliev'd  my  pain  ; 

His  word  the  threatening  worm  controuPd5 
And  bid  my  gourd  revive  again. 

6  Now,  Lord,  my  gourd  is  mine  no  more, 
'Tis  thine  who  only  could  it  raise  $ 
The  idol  of  my  heart  before, 
Henceforth  shall  flourish  to  thy  praise. 


ZECHARIAH. 

LXX\I.  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  promised  pre- 
sence.     Chap.  ii.  10. 

1  Q  ON  of  God  !  thy  people  shield  ! 
O    Must  we  still  thine  absence  mourn  ? 

Let  thy  promise  be  fulfill'd, 
Thou  hast  said,  "  I  will  return  ?" 

2  Gracious  Leader,  now  appear 
Shine  upon  us  with  thy  light  ! 
Like  the  spring,  when  thou  art  near, 
Hays  and  suns  are  doubly  bright. 

3  As  a  mother  counts  the  days, 
Till  her  absent  son  she  see  ; 

Longs  and  watches,  weeps  and  prays, 
So  our  spirits  long  for  thee. 
4?  Come,  and  let  us  feel  thee  nigh, 
Then  thy  sheep  Vhall  feed  in  peace  ; 


- 


S6  ZECHARIAH.  Bk.  I. 

Plenty  bless  us  from  on  high  ; 
Evil  from  amongst  us  cease. 

5  With  thy  love,  and  voice,  and  aid. 
Thou  canst  ev'ry  care  assuage  ; 
Then  we  shall  not  be  afraid, 
Tho'  the  world  and  Satan  rage. 

6  Thus  each  day  for  thee  we'll  spend. 
While  our  callings  we  pursue ; 
And  the  thoughts  of  such  a  friend 
Shall  each  night  our  joy  renew. 

7  Let  thy  light  be  ne'er  withdrawn. 
Golden  days  afford  us  long  ! 
Thus  we  pray  at  early  dawn, 
This  shall  be  our  evening  song. 

LXXVII.  A  brand  plucked  out  of  the  fl  re* 
Chap.  iii.  1 — 5. 

1    T  "\TITH  Satan,  my  accuser,  near, 
V  V     My  spirit  trembled  when  I  saw 
The  Lord  in  majesty  appear, 
And  heard  the  language  of  his  law. 

I  In  vain  I  wish'd  and  strove  to  hide 
The  tatter'd  filthy  rags  I  wore  ; 
While  my  fierce  foe  insulting  cry'd, 
"  See  what  you  trusted  in  before  ! 

3  Struck  dumb,  and  left  without  a  plea, 
I  heard  my  gracious  Saviour  say, 

"  Know,  Satan,  I  this  sinner  free, 
I  dy'd  to  take  his  sins  away. 

4  This  is  a  brand  which  I  in  love 

To  save  from  wrath  and  sin  design  ; 
In  vain  thy  accusations  prove  ; 
I  answer  all,  and  claim  him  mine.'* 
j   At  his  rebuke  the  tempter  fled  ; 
Then  he  remov'd  my  filthy  dress ; 


Hy.  78.  ZECHARIAH.  81 

*f  Poor  sinner,  take  this  robe,  he  said, 
It  is  thy  Saviour's  righteousness. 

6  And  see,  a  crown  of  life  prepar'd  ! 
That  I  might  thus  thy  head  adorn  : 

I  thought  no  shame  or  suffering  hard, 
But  wore  for  thee  a  crown  of  thorn." 

7  O  how  I  heard  these  gracious  words  I 
They  broke  and  heal'd  my  heart  at  once  ; 
Constrain'd  me  to  become  the  Lord's, 
And  all  my  idol  gods  renounce. 

3  Now,  Satan,  thou  hast  lost  thy  aim, 
Against  this  brand  thy  threats  a  vain  I 
Jesus  has  pluck'd  it  from  the  flame, 
And  who  shall  put  it  in  again  ! 

LXXVIII.  On  one  Stone  shall  be  seven  eyes, 

1  TESTIS  Christ,  the  Lord's  anointed, 
J    Who  his  blood  for  sinners  spilt; 
Is  the  stone  by  God  appointed, 

And  the  church  is  on  him  built : 

He  delivers  all  who  trust  him  from  their  guilt, 

2  Many  eyes  at  once  are  fix'd 
On  a  person  so  divine  ; 
Love,  with  awful  justice  mix'd, 
In  his  great  redemption  shine  : 

Mighty  Jesus  !  give  me  leave  to  call  thee  mine* 

3  By  the  Father's  eye  approv'd, 

Lo,  a  voice  is  heard  from  heaven  (1), 
u  Sinners,  this  is   my  beloved, 
For  your  ransom  freely  giv'n  : 
All  offences,  for  his  sake,  shall  be  forgiven.'^ 

4  Angels  with  their  eyes  pursued  him  (2), 
"When  he  left  his  glorious  throne  ; 

(1)  Matth.'iii.  17.  (2)  1  T'im.  m.  16. 


82  ZECHARIAH.  Bk.  I. 

With  astonishment  they  view'd  him 
Put  the  form  of  servant  on  :  [known. 

Angels  worship'd  him    who  was    on  earth  un- 

5  Satan  and  his  host  amazed, 
Saw  this  stone  in  Zion  laid ; 
Jesus,  tho'  to  death  abased, 
Bruis'd  the  subtle  serpent's  head  (1)  : 

When  to  save  us,  on  the  cross  his  blood  he  shed. 

6  When  a  guilty  sinner  sees  him, 
While  he  looks  his  soul  is  heal'd  ; 
Soon  his  sight  from  anguish  frees  him, 
And  imparts  a  pardon  seal'd  (2)  : 

May  this  Saviour  be  to  all  our  hearts  reveal'd* 

7  With  desire  and  admiration, 

All  his  blood-bought  flock  behold ; 
Him  who  wrought  out  their  salvation, 
And  enclos'd  them  in  his  fold  (3)  : 
Yet  their  warmest  love  and  praises  are  too  cold, 

8  By  the  eye  of  carnal  reason, 
Many  view  him  with  disdain  (4)  ; 
How  will  they  abide  the  season, 
When  he'll  come  with  all  his  train  ? 

To  escape  him  then  they'll  wish  but  wish  in  vainv 

9  How  their  hearts  will  melt  and  tremble, 
When  they  hear  his  awful  voice  (5)  ; 
But  his  saints  he'll  then  assemble, 

As  his  portion  and  his  choice  ; 
And  receive  them  to  his  everlasting  joys. 

LXXIX.  (c)  Praise  for  the  fountain  opened* 

Chap.  xiii.  1. 

1   HnHERE  is  a  fountain  fill'd  with  blood, 

JL     Drawn  from  Emmanuel's  veins  : 

And  sinners  plung'd  beneath  that  flood, 

Lose  all  their  guilty  stains. 

(l)Johttxii.  31.     (2)Johniii.  15.     (3)  lPct.ii.r. 
(4)  Psalms  cxviii.  22.  (i)  Rev.  i,  T. 


Hy.  80.  MALACHI.  & 

2  The  dying  thief  rejoic'd  to  see 

That  fountain  in  his  day  ; 

And  there  have  I,  as  vile  as  he, 

Wash'd  all  my  sins  away. 

3  Dear  dying  Lamb,  thy  precious  blood 

Shall  never  lose  its  pow'r, 
Till  all  the  ransom'd  church  of  God 
Be  sav'd  to  sin  no  more. 

4  E'er  since,  by  faith,  I  saw  the  stream 

Thy  flowing  wounds  supply, 
Redeeming  love  has  been  my  theme, 
And  shall  be  till  I  die. 

5  Then  in  a  nobler,  sweeter  song 

I'll  sing  thy  pow'r  to  save  ; 
When  this  poor  lisping  stamm'ring  tongue^ 
Lies  silent  in  the  grave. 

6  Lord,  I  believe  thou  hast  prepar'd 

(Unworthy  though  I  be) 
For  me  a  blood-bought  free  reward, 
A  golden  Harp  for  me  ! 

7  'Tis  strung,  and  tun'd  for  endless  years. 

And  form'd  by  pow'r  divine  ; 
To  sound  in  God  the  Father's  ears 
No  other  name  but  thine. 


MALACHI. 

LXXX.   They  shall  be  mine,  saith  the  Lord, 
Chap.  iii.  16—18. 

1   T17HEN  sinners  utter  boasting  words, 
V  V    And  glory  in  their  shame  ; 
The  Lord,  well  pleas'd,  an  ear  affords 
To  those  who  fear  his  name, 


S4  MATTHEW.  Bk.  I. 

2  They  often  meet  to  seek  his  face, 

And  what  they  do  or  say, 
Is  noted  in  his  book  of  grace 
Against  another  day. 

3  For^they  by  faith  a  day  descry, 

And  joyfully  expect, 
When  he,  descending  from  the  sky, 
His  jewels  will  collect. 

4  Unnotic'd  now,  because  unknown, 

A  poor  and  suffering  few  ,• 
He  comes  to  claim  them  for  his  own  ; 

And  bring  them  forth  to  view. 
o  With  transport  then  their  Saviour's  care 

And  favour  they  shall  prove  ; 
As  tender  parents  guard  and  spare 

The  children  of  their  love. 
6  Assembled  worlds  will  then  discern 

The  saints  alone  are  blest ; 
Whtn  wrath  shall  like  an  oven  burn, 

And  vengeance  strike  the  rest. 


MATTHEW. 

LXXXI.   The  Beggar.  Chap.  vii.  7,  8. 

1  T?  NCOURAG'D  by  thy  word 
P  a   Of  promise  to  the  poor ; 

Behold  a  beggar,  Lord, 

Walts  at  thy  mercy's  door! 
No  hand,  no  heart,  O  Lord,  but  thine, 
Can  help  or  pity  wants  like  mine. 

2  The  beggar's  usual  plan 
Relief  from  men  to  gain. 
If  offei  'd  unto  thee, 

I  know  thou  would 'st  disdain  % 


Hy.  81.  MATTHEW. 

And  pleas  which  move  thy  gracious  ear, 
Are  such  as  men  would  scorn  to  hear, 

3  I  have  no  right  to  say 
That  though  I  now  am  poor, 
Yet  once  there  was  a  day 
"When  I  possessed  more  : 

Thou  know'st  that  from  my  very  birth, 
I've  been  the  poorest  wretch  on  earth. 

4  Nor  can  I  dare  profess 
As  beggars  often  do, 
Though  great  is  my  distress, 
My  wants  have  been  but  few  : 

If  thou  should'st  leave  my  soul  to  starve, 
It  would  be  what  I  well  deserve* 

5  'Twere  folly  to  pretend 
I  never  begg'd  before '; 
Or  if  thou  now  befriend, 
I'll  trouble  thee  no  more  ; 

Thou  often  hast  reliev'd  my  pain, 
And  often  I  must  come  again. 

£  Though  crumbs  are  much  too  good 
For  such  a  dog  as  I ; 
No  less  than  children's  food 
My  soul  can  satisfy  : 

0  do  not  frown  and  bid  me  go, 

1  must  have  all  thou  canst  bestow* 

7  Nor  can  I  willing  be 
Thy  bounty  to  conceal 
From  others  who  like  me, 
Their  wants  and  hunger  feel : 

I'll  tell  them  of  thy  mercy's  store, 
And  try  to  send  a  thousand  more. 

8  Thy  thoughts,  Thou  only  wise  ! 

Our  thoughts  and  ways  transcend-. 
H 


86  MATTHEW.  Bk.  1 

Far  as  the  arched  skies 

Above  the  earth  extend  (l)  : 
Such  pleas  as  mine  men  would  not  bear, 
But  God  receives  a  beggar's  pray'r. 

LXXXII.    The  Leper.  Chap.  viii.  2,  3. 
FT  as  the  leper's  case  I  read, 


'O 


My  own  describ  d  I  feel ; 
Sin  is  a  leprosy  indeed. 

Which  none  but  Christ  can  heal. 

2  A  while  I  would  have  pass'd  for  well, 

And  strove  my  spots  to  hide  ; 
Till  it  broke  out  incurable, 
Too  plain  to  be  deny'd. 

3  Then  from  the  saints  I  sought  to  flee, 

And  dreaded  to  be  seen  ; 
I  thought  they  all  would  point  at  me 
And  cry,  u  Unclean,  unclean  !" 

4  What  anguish  did  my  soul  endure, 

Till  hope  and  patience  ceas'd? 
The  more  I  strove  myself  to  cure, 
The  more  the  plague  increas'd. 

5  While  thus  I  lay  distress'd,  I  saw 

The  Saviour  passing  by  ; 
To  him  though  fill'd  with  shame  and  awe, 
I  rais'd  my  mournful  cry. 

6  Lord,  thou  canst  heal  me  if  thou  wilt, 

For  thou  canst  all  things  do  ; 
O  cleanse  my  leprous  soul  from  guilt, 
My  filthy  heart  renew  ! 

7  He  heard,  and  with  a  gracious  look, 

Pronounc'd  the  healing  word  ; 
"  I  will  be  clean,"  and  while  he  spoke, 
I  felt  my  health  restor'd. 

(1)  Isaiah  iv.  8, 9 


Hy.  83.  MATTHEW.  ST 

8  Come  lepers  seize  the  present  hour, 
The  Saviour's  grace  to  prove  ; 
He  can  relieve,  for  he  is  pow'r, 
He  will,  for  he  is  love. 

LXXXIII.  A  sick  soul.  Chap.  ix.  21. 

1  T^HYSICJAN  of  my  sin-sick  soul, 
Jl      To  thee  I  bring  my  case  ; 

My  raging  malady  control, 
And  heal  me  by  thy  grace. 

2  Pity  the  anguish  I  endure, 

See  how  I  mourn  and  pine  ; 
For  never  can  I  hope  a  cure 
From  any  hand  but  thine. 

3  I  would  disclose  my  whole  complaint, 

But  where  shall  I  begin  ? 
No  words  of  mine  can  fully  paint, 

That  worst  distemper,  6in. 
4f  It  lies  not  in  a  single  part, 

But  through  my  frame  is  spread  ; 
A  burning  fever  in  my  heart, 

A  palsy  in  my  head. 

5  It  makes  me  deaf,  and  dumb,  and  blind, 

And  impotent  and  lame  ; 
And  overclouds,  and  fills  my  mind, 
With  folly,  fear,  and  shame. 

6  A  thousand  evil  thoughts  intrude 

Tumultuous  in  my  breast  $ 
Which  indispose  me  for  my  food# 
And  rob  me  of  my  rest. 

7  Lord  1  am  sick,  regard  my  cry. 

And  set  my  spirit  free  : 
Say,  canst  thou  let  a  sinner  dieB 
Who  longs  to  live  to  thee  ? 


88  MATTHEW.  Bk.  I. 


LXXXIV.  Satan  re  turning.  Chap.  xii.  33 — 35. 

t  T  71  THEN  Jesus  claims  the  sinner's  heart, 
VV     Where  Satan  rul'd  before. 
The  evil  spirit  must  depart, 
And  dares  return  no  more. 

2  But  when  he  goes  without  constraint, 

And  wanders  from  his  home  ; 
Altho'  withdrawn  'tis  but  a  feint, 
He  means  again  to  come. 

3  Some  outward  change  perhaps  is  seen 

If  Satan  quit  the  place  ; 
But  tho'  the  house  seems  swept  and  clean, 
'Tis  destitute  of  grace. 

4  Except  the  Saviour  dwell  and  reign 

Within  the  sinner's  mind  ; 
Satan,  when  he  returns  again, 
Will  easy  entrance  find. 

5  With  rage  and  malice  seven-fold, 

He  then  resumes  his  sway; 
No  more  by  checks  to  be  controll'd, 
No  more  to  go  away. 

6  The  sinner's  former  state  was  bad, 

But  worse  the  latter  far; 
He  lives  possessed,  blind,  and  mad, 
And  dies  in  dark  despair. 

7  Lord  save  me  from  this  dreadful  end  ! 

And  from  this  heart  of  mine, 

O  drive  and  keep  away  the  fiend 

Who  fears  no  voice  but  thine. 


LXXXV.  (c)   The  Sower.  Chap.  xiii.  3. 

YE  sons  of  earth  prepare  the  plough,, 
Break  up  your  fallow  ground  ! 
The  sower  is  gone  forth  to  sow, 
And  scatter  blessings  round. 


Hy.  86  MATTHEW.  39 

2  The  seed  that  finds  a  stony  soil, 

Shoots  forth  a  hasty  blade  ; 
But  ill  repays  the  sower's  toil, 

Soon  wither'd,  scorch'd,  and  dead. 

3  The  thorny  ground  is  sure  to  balk 

All  hopes  of  harvest  there  : 
We  find  a  tall  and  sickly  stalk, 
But  not  the  fruitful  ear. 

4  The  beaten  path  and  high-way  side 

Receive  the  trust  in  vain  ; 
The  watchful  birds  the  prey  divide, 
And  pick  up  all  the  grain. 

5  But  where  the  Lord  of  grace  and  pow'r 

Has  bless'd  the  happy  field ; 
How  plenteous  is  the  golden  store, 
The  deep  wrought  furrows  yield. 

6  Father  of  mercies,  we  have  need 

Of  thy  preparing  grace  ; 
Let  the  same  hand  that  gives  the  seed 
Provide  a  fruitful-place. 

LXXXVI.  The  -wheat  and  tares.  Chap.  xiii. 
37 — 42. 

1  nnHO'  in  the  outward  church  below 

A    The  wheat  and  tares  together  grow  $ 
Jesus  ere  long  will  weed  the  crop, 
And  pluck  the  tares  in  anger,  up. 

2  Will  it  relieve  their  horrors  there, 
To  recollect  their  stations  here  ? 

How  much  they  heard,  how  much  they  knew? 
How  long  among  the  wheat  they  grew ! 

3  Oh !  this  will  aggravate  their  case  ! 
They  perish  under  means  of  grace  I 
To  them  the  word  of  life  and  faith, 
Became  an  instrument  of  death. 

H  2 


i>0  MATTHEW.  Bk.  fe 

4  We  seem  alike  when  thus  we  meet, 
Strangers  might  think  we  all  are  wheat ; 
But  to  the  Lord's  all-searching  eyes, 
Each  heart  appears  without  disguise. 

5  The  tares  are  spar'd  for  various  ends, 
Some  for  the  sake  of  praying  friends  ; 
Others,  the  Lord,  against  their  will, 
Employs  his  counsel  to  fulfil. 

3  But  tho'  they  grow  so  tall  and  strong, 
His  plan  will  not  require  them  long  ; 
In  harvest  when  he  saves  his  own, 
The  tares  shall  into  hell  be  thrown. 

LXXXVII.  Peter  -walking  upon  the  xuater 
Chap.  xiv.  28 — 31. 

1      A     Word  from  Jesus  calms  the  sea, 
XlL  The  stormy  wind  controls; 
And  gives  repose  and  liberty 
To  tempest^tossed  souls. 
I  To  Peter  on  the  waves  he  came, 
And  gave  him  instant  peace  ; 
Thus  he  to  me  reveal'd  his  name, 
And  bid  my  sorrows  cease. 
3  Then  fiil'd  with  wonder,  joy,  and  love, 
Peter's  request  was  mine  : 
Lord  call  me  down,  I  long  to  prove, 
That  I  am  wholly  thine. 
4-  Unmov'd  at  all  I  have  to  meet 
On  life's  tempestuous  sea  ; 
Hard,  shall  be  easy  y  bitter,  sweet, 
So  I  may  follow  thee. 

y  He  heard  and  smil'd,  and  bid  me  try, 
I  eagerly  obey'd  ; 
But  when  from  him  I  turn'd  my  eye5 
How  was  my  soul  dismay 'd.? 


H*.  98.  MATTHEW.  Si 

6  The  storm  increased  on  ev'ry  side, 

I  felt  my  spirit  shrink  ; 
And  soon,  with  Peter,  loud  I  cry'd, 
"  Lord  save  me,  or  I  sink*" 

7  Kindly  he  caught  me,  by  the  hand, 

And  said,  u  Why  dost  thou  fear  I 
Since  thou  art  come  at  my  command, 

And  I  am  always  near. 
S  Upon  my  promise  rest  thy  hope, 

And  keep  my  love  in  view  ; 
I  stand  engag'd  to  hold  thee  up, 

And  guide  thee  safely  through,"" 

LXXXVIII.  Woman  of  Canaan +  Chap.  xv> 
22—28. 

1  TTJ  RAY'R  an  answer  will  obtain, 

JL      Though  the  Lord  a  while  delay  : 
None  shall  seek  his  face  in  vain, 
None  be  empty  sent  away. 

2  AVhen  the  woman  came  from  Tyre, 
And  for  help  to  Jesus  sought } 
Though  he  granted  her  desire, 
Yet  at  first  he  answer'd  not. 

3  Could  she  guess  at  his  intent* 
Wrhen  he  to  his  follow'rs  said, 
"  1  to  Israel's  sheep  am  sent, 

"  Dogs  must  not  have  children's  bread." 

4  She  was  not  of  Israel's  seed, 
But  of  Canaan*s  wretched  race  ; 
Thought  herself  a  dog  indeed  ; 
Was  not  this  a  hopeless  case  ? 

3  Yet  although  from  Canaan  sprung, 
Though  a  dog  herself  she  stiPd  ; 
She  had  Israel's  faith  and  tongue, 
And  was  own'd  for  Abram's  child. 


&  MATTHEW.  Bk.  I. 

6  From  his  words  she  draws  a  plea ; 

"  'Though  unworthy  children's  bread, 
'Tis  enough  for  one  like  me, 
If  with  crumbs  I  may  be  fed." 

7  Jesus  then  his  heart  reveal'd, 

"  "Woman  canst  thou  thus  believe  ? 

I  to  thy  petition  yield, 

All  that  thou  canst  wish,  receive  ?" 

8  'Tis  a  pattern  set  for  us, 

How  we  ought  to  wait  and  pray  ? 
None  who  plead  and  wrestle  thus 
Shall  be  empty  sent  away. 

LXXXIX.  What  think  ye  of  Christ!  Chap. 
xxii.  42. 

1  TI7HAT  think  ye  of  Christ?  is  the  test. 

V  V     To   try  both  your  state   and   your 
scheme  ; 
You  cannot  be  right  in  the  rest, 
Unless  you  think  rightly  of  him. 
As  Jesus  appears  in  your  view, 
As  he  is  beloved  or  not ; 
So  God  is  disposed  to  you, 
And  mercy  or  wrath  are  your  lot. 

2  Some  take  him  a  creature  to  be, 
A  man  or  an  angel  at  most ; 

Sure  these  have  not  feelings  like  me, 

Nor  know  themselves  wretched  and  lost : 

So  guilty,  so  helpless,  am  I, 

I  durst  not  confide  in  his  blood, 

Nor  on  his  protection  rely, 

Unless  I  were  sure  he  is  God. 

3  Some  call  him  a  Saviour,  in  word, 
But  mix  their  own  works  with  his  plan ; 


Hy.  90.  MATTHEW.  93 

And  hope  he  his  help  will  afford, 
"When  they  have  done  all  that  they  can  ; 
If  doings  prove  rather  too  light 
(A  little  they  own  they  may  fail) 
They  purpose  to  make  up  full  weight. 
By  casting  his  name  in  the  scale. 

4  Some  style  him  the  pearl  of  great  price, 
And  say  he's  the  fountain  of  joys  ; 
Yet  feed  upon  folly  and  vice, 

And  cleave  to  the  world  and  its  toys  ; 
Like  Judas,  the  Saviour  they  kiss, 
And  while  they  salute  him  betray  ; 
Ah  !  what  will  profession  like  this 
Avail  in  his  terrible  day  ? 

5  If  ask'd  what  of  Jesus  I  think  ? 
Though  still  my  best  thoughts  are  but  poor  \ 
I  say,  he's  my  meat  and  my  drink, 

My  life  and  my  strength  and  my  store  \ 
My  shepherd,  my  husband,  my  friend, 
My  Saviour  from  sin  and  from  thrall ; 
My  hope  from  beginning  to  end, 
My  portion,  my  Lord,  and  my  all. 

XC.   The  foolish  virgbis.  (1)  Chap.  xxv.   t, 

1  T  "K  THEN  descending  from  the  sky 

V  V     The  Bridegroom  shall  appear  ; 
And  the  solemn  midnight  cry, 

Shall  call  professors  near; 
How  the  sound  our  hearts  will  damp  I  i 
How  will  shame  o'erspread  each  face  ! 
If  we  only  have  a  lamp, 

Without  the  oil  of  grace. 

2  Foolish  virgins  then  will  wake 

And  seek  for  a  supply  5 

(1)  Book.  III.  Hymn  72, 


94  MATTHEW.  Bk.  I, 

But  in  vain  the  pains  they  take 

To  borrow  or  to  buy  : 
Then  with  those  they  now  despise, 
Earnestly  they'll  wish  to  share  $ 
But  the  best  among  the  wise, 
Will  have  no  oil  to  spare. 

3  Wise  are  they,  and  truly  blest, 

Who  then  shall  ready  be  ! 
But  despair  will  seize  the  rest, 

And  dreadful  misery  : 
Once  they'll  cry,  we  scorn'd  to  doubt, 
Though  in  lies  our  trust  we  put ; 
Now  our  lamp  of  hope  is  out, 
The  door  of  mercy  shut. 

4  If  they  then  presume  to  plead, 

"  Lord,  open  to  us  now  ; 
We  on  earth  have  heard  and  pray'd. 

And  with  thy  saints  did  bow  ;" 
He  will  answer  from  his  throne, 

u  Though  you  with  my  people  mix'd, 
Yet  to  me  ye  ne'er  were  known, 
Depart,  your  doom  is  fix'd." 

o  O  that  none  who  worship  here 
May  hear  that  word  depart ! 
Lord,  impress  a  godly  fear 
On  each  professor's  heart : 
6  Help  us,  Lord,  to  search  the  camp, 
Let  us  not  ourselves  beguile  ; 
Trusting  to  a  dying  lamp, 
Without  a  stock  of  oil. 

XCI.  Peter  sinning  &  repenting.  Chap.  xxvi.  To. 

XT  THEN  Peter  boasted,  soon  he  fell, 
VV     Yet  was  by  grace  restor'd ; 
His  case  should  be  regarded  well 
Bv  all  who  fear  the  Lord. 


Hy.  91.  MATTHEW.  $$ 

2  A  voice  it  has,  and  helping  hand, 

Backsliders  to  recall ; 
And  cautions  those  who  think  they  stand, 
Lest  suddenly  they  fall. 

3  He  said,  "  Whatever  others  do, 

With  Jesus  I'll  abide;" 
Yet  soon  amidst  a  murd'rous  crew 
His  suff'ring  Lord  deny'd. 

4  He  who  had  been  so  bold  before, 

Now  trembled  like  a  leaf; 
Not  only  1}  'd,  but  curs'd  and  swore, 

To  gain  the  more  belief. 
o  While  he  blasphem'd,  he  heard  the  cock, 

And  Jesus  look'd  in  love  ; 
At  once,  as  if  by  lightning  struck, 

His  tongue  forbore  to  move. 

6  Deliver'd  thus  from  Satan's  snare, 

He  starts,  as  from  a  sleep  ; 
His  Saviour's  look  he  could  not  bear, 
But  hasted  forth  to  weep. 

7  But  sure  the  faithful  cock  had  crow'd, 

An  hundred  times  in  vain, 
Had  not  the  Lord  that  look  bestow'd 
The  meaning  to  explain. 
3  As  I,  like  Peter,  vows  had  made, 
Yet  acted  Peter's  part ; 
So  conscience,  like  the  cock,  upbraids 
My  base,  ungrateful  heart. 
9  Lord  Jesus,  hear  a  sinner's  cry, 
My  broken  peace  renew  ; 
And  grant  one  pitying  look,  that  I. 
May  weep  with  Peter  too. 


96  MARK.  Bk.  I. 

MARK. 

XCI1.  The  legion  dispossessed.  Chap.  v.  18, 19^ 

1  T    EGION  was  my  name  by  nature, 
J_i   Satan  rag'd  within  my  breast ; 
Never  misery  was  greater,. 

i\^ver  sinner  more  possessM  : 
Mischievous  to  all  around  me, 
To  myself  the  greatest  foe  ; 
Thus  I  was,  when  Jesus  found  me, 
Fiii'd  with  madness,  sin,  and  woe. 

2  Yet  in  this  forlorn  condition, 
When  he  came  to  set  me  free ; 
I  reply'd  to  my  physician, 

u  What  have  I  to  do  with  thee  ?" 
But  he  would  not  be  prevented, 
Rescu'd  me  against  my  will  ! 
Had  he  staid  till  I  consented, 
I  had  been  a  captive  still. 

3  "  Satan,  though  thou  fain  wouldst  have  it. 
Know,  this  soul  is  none  of  thine  ; 

I  have  shed  my  blood  to  save  it, 
Now  I  challenge  it  for  mine  (l)  : 
Though  it  long  has  thee  resembled, 
lie nceforth  it  shall  me  obey  £ 
Thus  he  spoke,  while  Satan  trembled, 
Gnash'd  hs  teeth  and  fled  away. 
-£•  Thus  my  frantic  soul  he  healed, 
Bid  my  sins  and  sorrows  cease  ; 
"  Take,  said  he,  my  pardon  seal'd, 
I  have  sav'd  thee,  go  in  peace  :" 
Rather  take  me,  Lord,  to  heaven 
Now  thy  love  and  grace  I  know  ; 
Since  thou  hast  my  sins  forgiven. 
Why  should  I  remain  below  } 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  54. 


Hy.  93.  MARK.  $7 

5  u  Love,  he  said  will  sweeten  labours, 
T  ou  hast  something  yet  to  do  ; 
Go  and  tell  your  friends  and  neighbours, 
What  my  love  has  done  for  you  : 
Live  to  manifest  my  glory, 
Wait  for  heav'n  a  little  space  ; 
Sinners  when  they  hear  thy  story, 
Will  repent  and  seek  my  face." 

XCIII.   The  ruler's  daughter  raised. 
Chap.  v.  39.-42, 

1  /^«  OULD  the  creatures  help  or  ease  us,, 
V^    Seldom  should  we  think  of  pray'r; 
Few,  if  any  come  to  Jesus, 

Till  reduc'd  to  self  despair  : 
Long  we  either  slight  or  doubt  him, 
But  when  all  the  means  we  try, 
Prove  we  cannot  do  without  him, 
Then  at  last  to  him  we  cry. 

2  Thus  the  ruler  when  his  daughter 
Suffer'd  much,  though  Christ  was  nighf 
Still  deferr'd  it,  till  he  thought  her 

At  the  very  point  to  die  : 

Though  he  mourn'd  for  her  condition, 

He  did  not  intreat  the  Lord, 

Till  he  found  that  no  physician 

But  himself,  could  help  aiford. 
.3  Jesus  did  not  once  upbraid  him, 

That  he  had  no  sooner  come  ; 

But  a  gracious  answer  made  him, 

And  went  straightway s  with  him  home  s 

Yet  his  faith  was  put  to  trial, 

When  his  servants  came  and  said, 

"  Though  he  gave  thee  no  denial, 

'Tis  too  late  the  child,  is  dead.' 
4  Jesus  to  prevent  his  grieving, 

Kindly  spoke  and  eas'd  his  pain  ; 


98  MARK.  Bk.  I. 

"  Be  not  fearful,  but  believing, 
Thou  shalt  see  her  live  again  :" 
When  he  found  the  people  weeping, 
44  Cease,  he  said,  no  longer  mourn  ; 
For  she  is  not  dead  but  sleeping." 
Then  they  laughed  him  to  scorn. 

5  O  thou  meek  and  lowly  Saviour, 
How  determin'd  is  thy  love  ! 
Not  this  rude  unkind  behaviour, 
Could  thy  gracious  purpose  move  ; 
Soon  as  he  the  room  had  enter'd 
Spoke,  and, took  her  by  the  hand, 
Death  at  once  his  prey  surrender'd, 
And  she  liv'd  at  his  command. 

6  Kear  not  then  distress'd  believer, 
Venture  on  his  mighty  name  ; 
He  is  able  to  deliver, 

And  his  love  is  still  the  same  : 
Can  his  pity  or  his  power, 
Suffer  thee  to  pray  in  vain ; 
Wait  but  his  appointed  hour, 
And  thy  suit  thou  shalt  obtain. 

XCIV.  But  one  loaf,  (l)  Chap.  viii.  14. 

1  "T  \  THEN  the  disciples  crossM  the  lake 

V  V     With  but  one  loaf  on  board  ; 
How  strangely  did  their  hearts  mistake 
The  caution  of  the  Lord. 

2  "  The  leaven  of  the  Pharisees 

Beware,"  the  Saviour  said  : 
They  thought,  it  is  because  he  sees 
We  have  forgotten  bread. 

3  It  seems  they  had  forgotten  too, 

What  their  own  eyes  had  view'd  : 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  57. 


Hy.  95.  MARK.  99 

How  with  what  scarce  suffic'd  for  few, 
He  fed  a  multitude. 

4  If  five  small  loaves,  by  his  command, 

Could  many  thousand  serve  ; 
Might  they  not  trust  his  gracious  hand, 
That  they  should  never  starve  ! 

5  They  oft  his  pow'r  and  love  had  known. 

And  doubtless  were  to  blame  ; 
But  we  have  reason  good  to  own 
That  we  are  just  the  same. 

6  How  often  has  he  brought  relief, 

And  ev'ry  want  sup  ply 'd  ? 
Yet  soon,  again,  our  unbelief, 
Says,  "  Can  the  Lord  provide  ?" 

7  Be  thankful  for  one  loaf  to-day, 

Tho'  that  be  all  your  store  ; 
To-morrow,  if  you  trust  and  pray, 
Shall  timely  bring  you  more. 

XCV.  BARTIMEUS.  Chap.  x.  47,  48. 

1  "  -m  /TERCY  ;  O  thou  Son  of  David  ! 

j\JL  Thus  blind  Bartimeus  pray'd  ; 
Others  by  thy  word  are  saved, 
Now  to  me  afford  thine  aid  : 
Many  for  his  crying  chid  him, 
But  he  call'd  the  louder  still  ; 
Till  the  gracious  Saviour  bid  him 
"  Come,  and  ask  me  what  you  will." 

2  Money  was  not  what  he  wanted, 
Tho'  by  begging  us'd  to  live  ; 
But  he  ask'd,  and  Jesus  granted 
Alms,  which  none  but  he  could  give  ; 

"  Lord  remove  this  grievous  blindness, 
Let  my  eyes  behold  the  day;" 


loo  MARK.  Bk.  I. 

Straight  he  saw,  and  won  by  kindness, 
Folio  w'd  Jesus  in  the  way. 
3   Oh  !  methinks  I  hear  him  praising, 
Publishing  to  all  around  ; 
h  Friends,  is  not  my  case  amazing  ? 
What  a  Saviour  I  have  found  : 
Oh!  that  all  the  blind  but  knew  him, 
And  would  be  advis'd  by  me  ! 
Surely,  would  they  hasten  to  him, 
He  would  cause  them  all  to  see. 

XCVI.  (c)  The  house  of  prayer.  Chap.  xi.  1JT. 

1  r  A  ^HY  mansion  is  the  christian's  heart, 

-L    O  Lord,  thy  dwelling  place  secure  ! 
Bid  the  unruly  throng  depart 
And  leave  the  consecrated  door. 

2  Devoted  as  it  is  to  thee, 

A  thievish  swarm  frequents  the  place  i 
They  steal  away  my  joys  from  me, 
And  rob  my  Saviour  of  his  praise. 
o  There  too  a  sharp  designing  trade 
Sin,  Satan,  and  the  world  maintain; 
Nor  cease  to  press  me,  and  persuade, 
To  part  with  ease  and  purchase  pain. 

4  I  know  them,  and  I  hate  their  din, 
Am  weary  of  the  bustling  croud, 
But  while  their  voice  is  heard  within, 
I  cannot  serve  thee  as  I  would. 

5  Oh  !  for  the  joy  thy  presence  gives, 

What  peace  shall  reign  when  thou  art  here  f 
Thy  presence  makes  this  den  of  thieves, 
A  calm  delightful  house  of  pray'r. 

6  And  if  thou  make  thy  temple  shine, 
Yet,  self-abas'd  will  1  adore  ; 

The  gold  and  silver  are  not  mine, 
I  give  thee  what  was  thine  before. 


Hy.  97.  MARK.  101 

XCYII.   The  blasted  fig-tree*  Chap.  xi.  20. 

1  /^\NE  awful  word  which  Jesus  spoke, 
\J  Against  the  tree  which  bore  no  fruit ; 
More  piercing  than  the  lightning's  stroke, 
Blasted  and  dry'd  it  to  the  root. 

2  But  could  a  tree  the  Lord  offend, 
To  make  him  shew  his  anger  thus  ?- 
He  surely  had  a  farther  end, 

To  be  a  warning  word  to  us. 

3  The  fig-tree  by  its  leaves  was  known, 
But  having  not  a  fig  to  show  ; 

It  brought  a  heavy  sentence  down, 
,    "  Let  none  hereafter  on  thee  grow." 

4  Too  many,  who  the  gospel  hear, 
Whom  Satan  blinds  and  sin  deceives, 
We  to  this  fig-tree  may  compare, 
They  yield  no  fruit,  but  only  leaves. 

5  Knowledge,  and  zeal,  and  .gifts,  and  talk, 
Unless  combin'd  with  faith  and  love, 
And  witness'd  by  a  gospel  walk, 

Will  not  a  true  profession  prove. 

6  Without  the  fruit,  the  Lord  expects, 
Knowledge  will  make  our  state  the  worse  ; 
The  barren  trees  he  still  rejects, 

And  soon  will  blast  them  with  his  curse. 

T  O  Lord,  unite  our  hearts  in  pray'r 
On  each  of  us  thy  Spirit  send  ; 
That  we  the  fruits  of  grace  may  bear, 
And  find  acceptance  in  the  end. 


102  LUKE.  Br.  I. 

LURE. 

XCVIII.   The  two  debtors.  Chap.  vii.  47. 

1    /^\NCE  a  woman  silent  stood 
V_>/  While  Jesus  sat  at  meat ; 
From  her  eyes  she  pourM  a  flood 

To  wash  his  sacred  feet  : 
Shame  and  wonder,  joy  and  love, 
All  at  once,  possess'd  her  mind  ; 
That  she  ere  so  vile  could  prove, 

Yet  now  forgiveness  find. 

I  "  How  came  this  vile  woman  here  ? 

Will  Jesus  notice  such  ? 
Sure,  if  he  a  prophet  were, 

He  would  disdain  her  touch  !'' 
Simon  thus  with  scornful  heart, 
Slighted  one  whom  Jesus  lov'd  ; 
But  her  Saviour  took  her  part, 

And  thus  his  pride  reprov'd. 

3  "  If  two  men  in  debt  were  bound, 

One  less,  the  other  more  ; 
Fifty,  or  five  hundred  pound, 

And  both  alike  were  poor  ; 
Should  the  lender  both  forgive, 
When  he  saw  them  both  distressM; 
Which  of  them  would  you  believe 

EngagM  to  love  him  best  ? 

4  "  Surely  he  who  most  did  owe,15 

The  Pharisee  reply 'd  ; 
Then  our  Lord,  "  by  judging  so. 

Thou  dost  for  her  decide  : 
Simon,  if  like  her  you  knew, 
How  much  you  forgiveness  need  £ 
You  like  her  had  acted  too, 

And  wdcom'd  me  indeed- 


Hy.  99.  Luke,  103 

5  "  When  the  load  of  sin  is  felt, 

And  much  forgiveness  known  ; 
Then  the  heart  of  course  will  melt, 

Though  hard  before  as  stone  : 
Blame  not  then  her  love  and  tears, 
Greatly  she  in  debt  has  been  ; 
But  I  have  remov'd  her  fears, 

And  pardon'd  all  her  sins." 

6  When  I  read  this  woman's  case, 

Her  love  and  humble  zeal ; 
I  confess,  with  shame  of  face. 

My  heart  is  made  of  steel. 
Much  has  been  forgiv'n  to  me, 
Jesus  paid  my  heavy  score  ; 
What  a  creature  must  I  beT 

That  I  can  love  no  more  ! 

XCIX.  The  good  Samaritan,  Chap.  x.  S3 — 3S» 

1  TT  OW  kind  the  good  Samaritan 
JLX  To  him  that  fell  among  the  thieves  ! 
Thus  Jesus  pities  fallen  man, 

And  heals  the  wounds  the  soul  receives. 

2  Oh  !  I  remember  well  the  day, 
When  sorely  wounded,  nearly  slain  5 
Like  that  poor  man  I  bleeding  lay, 

And  groan'd  for  help,  but  groan'd  in  vain, 

3  Men  saw  me  in  this  helpless  case, 
And  pass'd  without  compassion  by  $ 
Each  neighbour  turn'd  away  his  face, 
Unmoved  by  my  mournful  cry. 

4  But  he  whose  name  had  been  my  scorn, 
(As  Jews  Samaritans  despise) 

Came  when  he  saw  me  thus  forlorn,. 
With  love  and  pity  in  his  eyes. 

5  Gently  he  rais'd  me  from  the  ground, 
Press'd  me  to  lean  upon  his  arm  ; 


104  LUKE.  Bk.  I. 

And  into  every  gaping  wound 
He  pour'd  his  own  all-healing  balm. 

6  Unto  his  church  my  steps  he  led, 
The  house  prepared  for  sinners  lost ; 
Gave  charge  I  should  be  cloth'd  and  fed, 
And  took  upon  him  all  the  cost. 

7  Thus  sav'd  from  death,  from  want  secur'd, 
I  wait  till  he  again  shall  come, 

(When  I  shall  be  completely  cur'd), 
And  take  me  to  his  heav'nly  home. 

8  There  through  eternal  boundless  days, 
When  nature's  wheel  no  longer  rolls  ; 
How  shall  I  love,  adore,  and  praise, 
This  good  Samaritan  to  souls  ! 

C.  MARTHA  and  31  ART.  Chap.  x.  38—42. 

1  1\  /TARTJJA  her  love  and  joy  express'd, 
-LVX  By  care  to  entertain  her  guest ; 
While  Mary  sat  to  hear  her  Lord, 

And  could  not  bear  to  lose  a  word. 

2  The  principle  in  both  the  same, 
Produced  in  each  a  different  aim  ; 
The  one  to  feast  the  Lord  was  led, 
The  other  waited  to  be  fed. 

3  But  Mary  chose  the  better  part, 

Her  Saviour's  words  refresh'd  her  heart  i 
While  busy  Martha  angry  grew, 
And  lost  her  time  and  temper  too. 

4  With  warmth  she  to  her  sister  spoke, 
But  brought  upon  herself  rebuke  ; 

"  One  thing  is  needful,  and  but  one, 
Why  do  thy  thoughts  on  many  run  Vy 

5  How  oft  are  we  like  Martha  vex'd, 
Encumber'd,  hurried,  and  perplex'd  ? 


Hy.  101.  LUKE.  105 

"While  trifles  so  engross  our  thought, 
The  one  thing  needful  is  forgot. 

6  Lord,  teach  us  the  one  thing  to  choose, 
Which  they  who  gain  can  never  lose  \ 
Sufficient  in  itself  alone, 

And  needful  were  the  world  our  own. 

7  Let  grov'ling  hearts  the  world  admire, 
Thy  love  is  all  that  I  require  ! 
Gladly  I  may  the  rest  resign, 

If  the  one  needful  thing  be  mine  ! 

CL   The  heart  taken.  Chap.  xi.  21,  22, 

1  nr^HE  castle  of  the  human  heart 

A  Strong  in  its  native  sin  ; 
Is  guarded  well  in  every  part9 
By  him  who  dwells  within. 

2  For  Satan  there  in  arms  resides, 

And  calls  the  place  his  own  4 
With  care  against  assaults  provides, 
And  rules  as  on  a  throne* 

3  Each  traitor  thought  on  him  as  chief. 

In  blind  obedience  waits  ; 
And  pride,  self-will,  and  unbelief, 
Are  posted  at  the  gates. 

4  Thus  Satan  for  a  season  reigns, 

And  keeps  his  goods  in  peace  ; 
The  soul  is  pleas'd  to  wear  his  chains. 
Nor  wishes  a  release. 

5  But  Jesus  stronger  far  than  he, 

In  his  appointed  hour, 
Appears  to  set  his  people  free 
From  the  usurper's  pow'r. 
©  "  This  heart  I  bought  with  blood,"  he  says, 
"  And  now  it  shall  be  mine  j" 


106  LUKE.  Bk.  L 

His  voice  the  strong  one  arm'd  dismays, 
He  knows  he  must  resign. 

7  In  spite  of  unbelief  and  pride, 

And  self,  and  Satan's  art; 
The  gates  of  brass  fly  open  wide, 
And  Jesus  wins  the  heart. 

8  The  rebel  soul  that  once  withstood, 

Tne  Saviour's  kindest  call ; 

Rejoices  now  by  grace  subdu'd, 

To  serve  him  with  her  all. 

CII.   The  worldling.  Chap.  xii.  16—21. 

1  "  "TV /FY  barns  are  full,  my  stores  increase, 

_lVJL  And  now  for  many  years, 
Soul,  eat  and  drink,  and  take  thine  ease, 
Secure  from  wants  and  fears." 

2  Thus  while  a  worldling  boasted  once, 

As  many  now  presume  ; 
He  heard  the  Lord  himself  pronounce, 
His  sudden  awful  doom. 

3  "  This  night,  vain  fool,  thy  soul  must  pass 

Into  a  world  unknown  ; 
And  who  shall  then  the  stores  possess, 
Which  thou  hast  call'd  thine  own  V* 

4  Thus  blinded  mortals  fondly  scheme 

For  happiness  below ; 
Till  death  disturbs  the  pleasing  dreary 
And  they  awake  to  woe. 

5  Ah  !  who  can  speak  the  vast  dismay 

That  fills  the  sinners  mind  ; 
When  torn,  by  death's  strong  hand  away, 
He  leaves  his  all  behind. 

6  Wretches,  who  cleave  to  earthly  things, 

But  are  not  rich  to  God ; 


Hy.  103.  LUKE.  107 

Their  dying  hour  is  full  of  stings, 

And  hell  their  dark  abode, 
7  Dear  Saviour  make  us  timely  wise, 

Thy  gospel  to  attend  ; 
That  we  may  live  above  the  skies, 

When  this  poor  life  shall  end. 

OIL  The  barren  fig-tree.     Chap.  xiii.  6 — 9. 

1  nr^HE  church  a  garden  is. 

X     In  which  believer's  stand, 

Like  ornamental  trees 

Planted  by  God's  own  hand  : 
His  Spirit  waters  all  their  roots, 
And  ev'ry  branch  abounds  with  fruits. 

2  But  other  trees  there  are, 
In  this  inclosure  grow  : 
Which  though  they  promise  fair, 
Have  only  leaves  to  show  : 

No  fruits  of  grace  are  on  them  found, 
They  stand  but  cumb'rers  of  the  ground. 

3  The  under  gard'ner  grieves, 
In  vain  his  strength  he  spends, 
For  heaps  of  useless  leaves> 
Afford  him  small  amends  : 

He  hears  the  Lord  his  will  make  known, 
To  cut  the  barren  fig-trees  down. 

4  How  difficult  his  post, 
What  pangs  his  bowels  move, 
To  find  his  wishes  cross'd, 
His  labours  useless  prove  ! 

His  last  relief,  his  earnest  pray'r, 
"  Lord,  spare  them  yet  another  year. 

5  Spare  them,  and  let  me  try 
What  farther  means  may  do  ; 
I'il  fresh  manure  apply, 

My  digging  I'll  renew  ; 


108  LUKE.  Bk.  I. 

Who  knows  but  yet  they  fruit  may  yield  ! 
If  not — 't  s  just  they  may  be  fcll'd." 
6  If  under  means  of  grace, 

No  gracious  fruits  appear  ; 

It  is  a  dreadful  case, 

Though  God  may  long  forbear  : 
At  length  he'll  strike  the  threaten'd  blow  (l), 
And  lay  the  barren  fig-tree  low. 

CIV.  The  prodigal  Son.     Chap.  xv.    1 1—24. 
1      \   FFLICTIONS,  though  they  seem  se- 
jT\.    In  mercy  oft  are  sent ;  [vere, 

They  stopp'd  the  prodigal's  career, 
And  forc'd  him  to  repent ; 
-2  Although,  he  no  relenting  felt, 
Till  he  had  spent  his  store  ; 
His  stubborn  heart  began  to  melt, 
When  famine  pinch'd   him  sore. 
-3   "  What  have  I  gain'd  by  sin  he  said, 
But  hunger,  shame,  and  fear  ;     / 
My  father's  house  abounds  with  bread. 
While  I  am  starving  here. 
4  "  I'll  go  and  tell  him  all  I've  done, 
And  fall  before  his  face  ; 
Unworthy  to  be  call'd  his  son, 
I'll  seek  a  servant's  place." 
>   His  father  saw  him  coming  back, 
He  saw,  and  ran,  and  smil'd  ; 
And  threw  his  arms  around  the  neck 
Of  his  rebellious  child. 
6  "  Father,  I've  sinned — but  O  forgive  I1' 
14  I've  heard  enough,  he  said, 
Rejoice  my  house,  my  son's  alive, 
For  whom  I  moum'd  as  dead. 

(1)  Book  II.  Hymn  26. 


Hy.  105.  LUKE.  109 

7  "  Now  let  the  fatted  calf  be  slain. 
And  spread  the  news  around  ; 
My  son  was  dead,  but  lives  again, 
Was  lost,  but  now  is  found." 
S  'Tis  thus  the  Lord  his  love  reveals, 
To  call  poor  sinners  home  ; 
More  than  a  father's  love  he  feels, 
And  welcomes  all  that  come. 

CV.  The  rich  man  and  Lazarus* 
Chap,  xvi.  19—25. 

1  \     Worldling  spent  each  day 
XIl    In  luxury  and  state  : 
While  a  believer  lay, 

A  beggar  at  his  gate  '. 
Think  not  the  Lord's  appointment  strange^ 
Death  made  a  great  and  lasting  change, 

2  Death  brought  the  saint  release 
From  want,  disease,  and  scorn  ; 
And  to  the  land  of  peace, 

His  soul,  by  angels  borne-, 
Tn  Abraham's  bosom  safely  plac'd, 
Enjoys  an  everlasting  feast. 

3  The  rich  man  also  dy'd, 
And  in  a  moment  fell 
From  all  his  pomp  and  pride 
Into  the  flames  of  hell ; 

The  beggar's  bliss  from  far  beheld, 
His  soul  with  double  anguish  fill'd*. 

4  "  O  Abra'm  send,  he  cries, 
(But  his  vequest  was  vain) 
The  beggar  from  the  skies 
To  mitigate  my  pain  ! 

One  drop  of  water  I  entreat, 
To  soothe  mv  tongue's  tormenting  heat, 
K 


110  LUKE.  Bk.  I. 

5  Let  all  who  worldly  pelf, 
And  worldly  spirits  have, 
Observe,  each  for  himself, 
The  answer  Abra'm  gave  : 

"  Remember  thou  was  fill'd  with  good, 
While  the  poor  beggar  pin'd  for  food. 

6  "  Neglected  at  thy  door, 
With  tears  he  begg'd  his  bread  : 
But  now  he  weeps  no  more, 
His  griefs  and  pains  are  fled ; 

His  joys  eternally  will  flow, 
While  thine  expire  in  endless  woe." 

7  Lord,  make  us  truly  wise, 
To  chuse  thy  people's  lot ; 
And  earthly  joys  despise, 
Which  soon  will  be  forgot : 

The  greatest  evil  we  can  fear, 
Js  to  possess  our  portion  here  ! 

CVI.   The  importunate  Widow,  (1). 
Chap,  xviii.  1 — 7. 

1  /^vUR  Lord,  who  knows  full  well 
V^/   The  heart  of  ev'ry  saint; 
Invites  us  by  a  parable, 

To  pray  and  never  faint. 

2  He  bows  his  gracious  ear, 
We  never  plead  in  vain  ; 

Yet  we  must  wait  till  he  appear, 
And  pray,  and  pray  again. 

3  Though  unbelief  suggest, 
Why  should  we  longer  wait  ? 

He  bids  us  never  give  him  rest, 
But  be  importunate. 

4  'Twas  thus  a  widow  poor, 
Without  support  or  friend, 

(1)  Book  II.  Hymn  60 


Hy.  107.  LUKE.  Ill 

Beset  the  unjust  judge's  door, 
And  gain'd,  at  last,  her  end. 

5  For  her  he  little  car'd, 
As  little  for  the  laws  ; 

Nor  God  nor  man  did  he  regard, 
Yet  he  espous'd  her  cause. 

6  She  urg'd  him  day  and  night, 
Would  no  denial  take  ; 

At  length  he  said,  "  I'll  do  her  right, 
For  my  own  quiet's  sake." 

7  And  shall  not  Jesus  hear 
His  chosen  when  they  cry  ? 

Yes,  though  he  may  a  while  forbear, 
He'll  help  them  from  on  high. 

8  His  nature,  truth,  and  love, 
Engage  him  on  their  side  ; 

When  they  are  griev'd,  his  bowels  mover 
And  can  they  be  deny'd  ? 

9  Then  let  us  earnest  be, 
And  never  faint  in  pray'r  ? 

He  loves  our  importunity, 

And  makes  our  cause  his  care. 

CVII.  ZACCHEUS.  Chap,  xix.  1—6. 

1  rj  ACCHEUS  climb'd  the  tree, 

£^a  And  thought  himself  unknown  i 
But  how  surpriz'd  was  he, 
When  Jesus  call'd  him  down  ! 
The  Lord  beheld  him,  tho'  conceal'd,  * 

And  by  a  word  his  pow'r  reveal'd. 

2  Wonder  and  joy  at  once 

Were  painted  in  his  face  ; 

"  Does  he  my  name  pronounce, 

And  does  he  know  my  case  ? 
Will  Jesus  deign  with  me  to  dine  ? 
Lord,  I,  with  all  I  have  am  thine." 


112  LUKE.  Bk.  I. 

3       Thus  where  the  gospel's  preach'd, 

And  sinners  come  to  hear ; 

The  hearts  of  some  are  reach'd, 

Before  they  are  aware  y 
The  word  directly  speaks  to  them, 
And  seems  to  point  them  out  by  name. 

4t       ?Tis  curiosity, 

Oit  brings  them  in  the  way, 

Only  the  man  to  see, 

And  hear  what  he  can  say ; 

But  how  the  sinner  starts  to  find, 

The  preacher  knows  his  inmost  mind. 

5  s.  His  long  forgotten  thoughts, 

Are  brought  again  in  view, 

And  all  his  secret  thoughts, 

Reveal'd  in  public  to  ; 
Tho*  compass'd  with  a  croud  about, 
The  searching  word  has  found  him  out* 

6  "While  thus  distressing  pain 
And  sorrow  fills  the  heart ; 
He  hears  a  voice  again, 
That  bids  his  fears  depart, 

Then  like  Zaicheus  he  is  blest, 
And  Jesus  deigns  to  be  his  guest* 

CVIH.    The  Believer's   Danger,  Safety  and 
Duty,  Chap.  xxii.  31,  32. 

1  "  Qi  IMON,  beware  !  (the  Saviour  said), 

lO   Satan,  your  subtle  foe. 
Already  has  his  measures  laid, 
Your  soul  to  overthrow. 

2  "  He  wants  to  sift  you  all  as  wheat, 

And  thinks  his  vict'ry  sure  j 
But  I  his  malice  will  defeat, 
My  pray'r  shall  faith  secured 


Hy.  109.  LUKE.  113 

3  Believers,  tremble  and  rejoice, 

Your  help  and  danger  view  ; 

This  warning  has  to  you  a  voice, 

This  promise  speaks  to  you. 

4  Satan  beholds  with  jealous  eye, 

Your  privilege  and  joy ; 
He's  always  watchful,  always  nigh, 
To  tear  and  to  destroy. 

5  But  Jesus  lives  to  intercede,  .> 

That  faith  may  still  prevail ; 
He  will  support,  in  time  of  need, 
And  Satan's  art  shall  fail. 

6  Yet  let  us  not  the  warning  slight, 

But  watchful  still  be  found  ; 
Tho'  faith  cannot  be  slain  in  fight, 
It  may  receive  a  wound. 

7  While  Satan  watches,  dare  we  sleep  $ 

We  must  our  guard  maintain  ; 
But,  Lord,  do  thou  the  city  keep, 
Or  else  we  watch  in  vain  (1.) 

GIX.  Father  forgive  them.  Chap,  xxiii.  34. 

1  "  TT<  ATHER,  forgive  (the  Saviour  said)r 

Ji       They  know  not  what  they  do  :" 
His  heart  was  mov'd,  when  thus  he  pray'd 
For  me,  my  friends,  and  you. 

2  He  saw  that  as  the  Jews  abus'd 

And  crucify'd  his  flesh  ; 
So  he,  by  us,  would  be  refus'd, 
And  crucify'd  afresh. 

3  Thro'  love  of  sin,  we  long  were  prone 

To  act  as  Satan  bid ; 
But  now  with  grief  and  shame  we  own3 
We  knew  not  what  we  did. 

(1)  Psalm  xxvii.  1. 
K  2 


114  LUKE,  Bf.  I. 

4  We  knew  not  the  desert  of  sin, 

Nor  whom  we  thus  defy'd  : 
Nor  where  our  guilty  souls  had  been, 
If  Jesus  had  not  dy'd. 

5  We  knew  not  what  a  law  we  broke, 

How  holy,  just,  and  pure  ! 
Nor  what  a  God  we  durst  provoke, 
But  thought  ourselves  secure. 

6  But  Jesus  all  our  guilt  foresaw, 

And  shed  his  precious  blood 
To  satisfy  the  holy  law, 

And  make  our  peace  with  God. 

7  My  sin,  dear  Saviour,  made  thee  bleed, 

Yet  didst  thou  pray  for  me  ! 
I  knew  not  what  I  did,  indeed, 
When  ignorant  of  thee. 

6X.  The  two  malefactors*  Chap,  xxiii.  39 — 43^ 


1    Qi  OVEREIGN  grace  has  power  alone 

O  To  subdue  a  heart  of  stone  ; 

And  the  moment  grace  is  felt, 

Then  the  hardest  heart  will  melt. 
I  When  the  Lord  was  crucify'd, 

Two  transgressors  with  him  dy'd  ; 

One  with  vile  blaspheming  tongue, 

ScofTd  at  Jesus  as  he  hung. 
3  Thus  he  spent  his  wicked  breath, 

In  the  very  jaws  of  death  ; 
.    Perish'd  as  too  many  do, 

With  the  Saviour  in  his  view. 
At  But  the  other,  touch'd  with  grace? 

Saw  the  danger  of  his  case  ; 

Faith  receiv'd  to  own  the  Lord, 

When  the  scribes  and  priests  abhor'd^ 


Hy.  111.  JOHN.  115 

5  "  Lord  (he  pray'd)  remember  me, 
When  in  glory  thou  shalt  be  ; 

"  Soon  with  me,  (the  Lord  replies^ 
Thou  shalt  rest  in  paradise. " 

6  This  was  wond'rous  grace  indeed, 
Grace  vouchsafed  in  time  of  need 
Sinners  trust  in  Jesus'  name, 
You  shall  find  him  still  the  same. 

7  But  beware  of  unbelief, 
Think  upon  the  hard'ned  thief; 
If  the  gospel  you  disdain, 
Christ,  to  you,  will  die  in  vain. 


JOHN. 

CXI.    The  Woman  of  Samaria,  Chap.  iv.  28. 

1  JESUS,  to  what  diclst  thou  submit 

«1    To  save  thy  dear-bought  flock  from  hell  ! 
Like  a  poor  traveler,  see  him  sit, 
Athirst  and  weary,  by  the  well. 

2  The  woman,  who  for  water  came, 
(What  great  events  on  small  depend) 
Then  learn'd  the  glory  of  his  name, 
The  well  of  life,  the  sinner's  friend  ! 

3  Taught  from  her  birth  to  hate  the  Jews, 
And  fill'd  with  party -pride  ;  at  first 
Her  zeal  induc'd  her  to  refuse 
Water,  to  quench  the  Saviour's  thirst. 

4  But  soon  she  knew  the  gift  of  God, 
And  Jesus,  whom  she  scorn'd  before, 
Unask'd,  that  drink  on  her  bestow'd, 
Which  whoso  tastes  shall  thirst  no  more. 


116  JOHN.  Bk.  I. 

5  His  words  her  prejudice  remov'd, 
Her  sin  she  felt,  relief  she  found  ; 

She  saw  and  heard,  believ'd  and  lov'd, 
And  ran  to  tell  her  neighbours  round. 

6  O  come,  this  wond'rous  man  behold ! 
The  promis'd  Saviour  !  this  is  he, 
"Whom  ancient  prophecies  foretold, 
Born,  from  our  guilt  to  set  us  free. 

7  Like  her,  in  ignorance  content, 

I  worshipp'd  long,  I  knew  not  what; 

Like  her,  on  other  things  intent, 

I  found  him,  when  I  sought  him  not* 

8  He  told  me  all  that  e'er  I  did, 
And  told  me  all  was  pardon'd  too  ; 
And  now,  like  her,  as  he  has  bid, 

I  live  to  point  him  out  to  you. 

CXIL  The  PoolofBethesda.  (1)  Chap.  v.  2—4> 

1  T)  ESIDE  the  Gospel  pool 
J3  Appointed  for  the  poor  ; 
From  year,  to  year,  my  helpless  soul 

Has  waited  for  a  cure. 

2  How  often  have  I  seen 

The  healing  waters  move  ; 
And  others  round  me,  stepping  in 
Their  efficacy  prove. 

3  But  my  complaints  remain, 

I  feel  the  very  same  ; 
As  full  of  guilt,  and  fear,  and  pain, 
As  when  at  first  I  came. 

4  O  would  the  Lord  appear, 

My  malady  to  heal ; 
He  knows  how  long  I've  languish'd  here?  * 
And  what  distress  I  feel. 

(1)  Book  III.  H>mnl8. 


Hy.  113.  JOHN.  117 

5  How  often  have  I  thought 
Why  should  I  longer  he  ? 
Surely  the  mercy  I  have  sought 
Is  not  for  such  as  I. 
§  But  whether  can  I  go  ? 
There  is  no  other  pool 
Where  streams  of  so v 'reign  virtue  flow 
To  make  a  sinner  whole. 

7  Here  then,  from  day  to  day, 

I'll  wait  and  hope,  and  try, 
Can  Jesus  hear  a  sinner  pray. 
Yet  suffer  him  to  die  ? 

8  No  :  he  is  full  of  grace  ; 

He  never  will  permit 
A  soul,  that  fain  would  see  his  face, 
To  perish  at  his  feet. 

CXIII.  Another, 

X  TTERE  at  Bethesda's  pool,  the  poor, 
XX  The  withered,  halt  and  blind  \ 
With  waiting  hearts  expect  a  cure, 
And  free  admittance  find. 

2  Here  streams  of  wond'rous  virtue  flow 

To  heal  a  sin-sick  soul ; 
To  wash  the  filthy  white  as  snow, 
And  make  the  wounded  whole. 

3  The  dumb  break  forth  in  songs  of  praise, 

The  blind  their  sight  receive  : 
The  cripple  runs  in  wisdom's  ways, 
The  dead  revive  and  live ! 

4  Restrain'd  to  no  one  case,  or  time, 

These  waters  always  move  ; 

Sinners  in  every  age  and  clime, 

Their  vital  influence  prove. 


118  JOHN.  Bk.  1. 

5  Yet  numbers  daily  near  them  lie, 

Who  meet  with  no  relief; 
With  life  in  view  they  pine  and  die 
In  hopeless  unbelief. 

6  'Tis  strange  they  should  refuse  to  bathe 

And  yet  frequent  the  pool ; 
But  none  can  even  wish  for  faith, 

While  love  of  sin  bears  rule.  t 

7  Satan  their  consciences  has  seal'd, 

And  stupify'd  their  thought ; 
For  were  they  willing  to  be  heal'd, 
The  cure  would  soon  be  wrought* 

8  Do  thou,  dear  Saviour,  interpose, 

Their  stubborn  wills  constrain  ; 
Or  else  to  them  the  water  flows, 
And  grace  is  preach'd  in  vain. 

CXIV.   The  disciples  at  Sea.    (1.)    Chap.  vi. 
16—21. 

1  /^i  ONSTRAIN'D  by  their  Lord  to  em- 

vy  bark, 

And  venture,  without  him  to  sea  ; 
The  season  tempestuous  and  dark, 
How  griev'd  the  disciples  must  be  ! 
But  tho'  he  remain'd  on  the  shore, 
He  spent  the  night  for  them  in  pray'r  ; 
They  still  were  as  safe  as  before, 
And  equally  under  his  care. 

2  They  strove,  tho'  in  vain,  for  a  while, 
The  force  of  the  waves  to  withstand  ; 
But  when  they  were  weary'd  with  toil, 
They  saw  their  dear  Saviour  at  hand  : 
They  gladly  receiv'd  him  on  board, 
His  presence  their  spirits  reviv'cK 

(1)  Book  II.  Hymn  87 


Hy.  11  J.  JOHiV.  119 

The  sea  became  calm  at  his  word, 
And  soon  at  their  port  they  arriv'd. 

3  We,  like  the  disciples,  are  toss'd 
By  storms  on  the  perilous  deep  , 
But  cannot  be  possibly  lost, 

For  Jesus  has  charge  of  the  ship  ; 
Tho'  billows  and  winds  are  enrag'd, 
And  threaten  to  make  us  their  sport  : 
This  pilot  his  word  has  engag'd 
To  bring  us  in  safety  to  port. 

4  If  sometimes  we  struggle  alone, 
And  he  is  withdrawn  from  our  view  ; 
It  makes  us  more  willing  to  own 
We  nothing,  without  him  can  do  : 
Then  Satan  our  hopes  would  assail, 
But  Jesus  is  still  within  call ; 

And  when  our  poor  efforts  quite  fail, 
He  comes  in  good  time  and  does  all. 

5  Yet  Lord,  we  are  ready  to  shrink 
Unless  we  thy  presence  perceive ; 
O  save  us  (we  cry)  or  we  sink, 
We  would,  but  we  cannot  believe  ; 
The  night  has  been  long  and  severe, 
The  winds  and  the  seas  are  still  high  ; 
Dear  Saviour  this  moment  appear, 
And  say  to  our  souls,  "  It  is  I  (1)  !" 

CXV.  Will  ye  also  go  away  f  Chap.  vi. 
67—69. 

1  T  If  THEN  any  turn  from  Zion's  way, 

V  V     (Alas  !  what  numbers  do  !) 
Methinks  I  hear  my  Saviour  say, 
"  Wilt  thou  forsake  me  too !" 

2  Ah,  Lord  !  with  such  a  heart  as  mine, 

Unless  thou  hold  me  fast ; 

(1)  Book.  Ill,  Hymn  18, 


120  JOHN.  Bk.  I. 

I  feel  I  must,  I  shall  decline, 
And  prove  like  them  at  last. 

3  Yet  thou  alone  hast  pow'r  I  know, 

To  save  a  wretch  like  me  ; 
To  whom,  or  whether,  could  I  go, 
If  I  should  turn  from  thee  ; 

4  Beyond  a  doubt  I  rest  assur'd 

Thou  art  the  Christ  of  G  ;d  ; 
Who  hast  eternal  life  secur'd 
By  promise  and  by  blood. 

5  The  help  of  men  and  angels  join'd, 

Could  never  reach  my  case  ; 
Nor  can  I  hope  relief  to  find, 
But  in  thy  boundless  grace. 

6  No  voice  but  thine  can  give  me  rest, 

And  bid  my  fears  depart ; 
No  love  but  thine  can  make  me  blest, 
And  satisfy  my  heart. 

7  What  anguish  has  that  question  stirr'd, 

If  I  will  also  go  ? 
Yet,  Lord,  relying  on  thy  word, 
I  humbly  answer,  no  ! 

CXYI.   The  resurrection  and  the  Life. 
Chap.  xi.  25. 

1  "  T  AM  (saith  Christ)  your  glorious  head, 

X  (May  we  attention  give) 
The  resurrection  of  the  dead, 
The  life  of  all  that  live. 

2  "  By  faith  in  me  the  soul  receives 

New  life,  tho'  dead  before  ; 
And  he  that  in  my  name  believes, 
Shall  live,  and  die  no  more. 

3  u  The  sinner,  sleeping  in  his  grave, 

Shall  at  my  voice  awake  ; 


Hy.  117.  JOHN.  i-ai 

And  when  I  once  begin  to  save., 

My  work  I  ne'er  forsake." 
4  Fulfil  thy  promise,  gracious  Lord, 

On  us  assembled  here  ; 
Put  forth  thy  Spirit  with  the  word, 

And  cause  the  dead  to  hear. 
.3  Preserve  the  power  of  faith  alive. 

In  those  who  love  thy  name  | 
For  sin  and  Satan  daily  strive 

To  quench  the  sacred  flame. 

6  Thy  pow'r  and  mercy  first  prevail'd, 

From  death  to  set  us  free  ; 
And  often  since  our  life  had  fail'd, 
If  not  renew'd  by  thee. 

7  To  thee  we  look,  to  thee  we  bow, 

To  thee  for  help  we  call ; 

Our  life  and  resurrection  thou, 

Our  hope,  our  joy,  our  all. 

CXVII.  Weeping  MART.  Chap.  xx.  11— 1&. 

1  "It  /["  ARY  to  her  Saviour's  tomb 
xVJL  Hasted  at  the  early  dawn  ; 
Spice  she  brought,  and  sweet  perfume ; 
But  the  Lord  she  lov'd  was  gone. 
For  a  while  she  weeping  stood, 
Struck  with  sorrow  and  surprise ; 
Shedding  tears,  a  plenteous  flood, 
For  her  heart  supply'd  her  eyes. 

2  Jesus,  who  is  always  near, 
Though  too  often  unperceiv'd, 
Came,  his  drooping  child  to  cheer, 
Kindly  asking  why  she  griev'd  ? 
Though  at  first  she  knew  him  not, 
When  he  cali'd  her  by  her  name, 
Then  her  griefs  were  all  forgot, 

-(For  she  found  he  was  the  same* 
L 


122  JOHX.  Bk.  I. 

3  Grief  and  sighing  quickly  fled 
When  she  heard  his  welcome  voice  $ 
Just  before  she  thought  him  dead, 
Now  he  bids  her  heart  rejoice ; 
What  a  change  his  word  can  make, 
Turning  darkness  into  day  ! 

You  who  weep  for  Jesus'  sake, 
He  vrill  wipe  your  tears  away. 

4  He  who  came  to  comfort  her, 
When  she  thought  her  all  was  lost, 
Will  for  your  relief  appear, 
Though  you  now  are  tempest-toss'd  : 
On  his  word  your  burden  cast, 

On  his  love  your  thoughts  employ  $ 
Weeping  for  a  while  may  last, 
But  the  morning  brings  the  joy. 

CXVIII.   (c)  Lovest  thou  me  P  Chap.  xxi.  16. 
1   T  T  ARK,  my  soul !  it  is  the  Lord  ; 

Xi   'Tis  thy  Saviour,  hear  his  word ; 
Jesus  speaks,  and  speaks  to  thee  : 

"  Say,  poor  sinner,  lov'st  thou  me  ? 

"  I  delivered  thee  when  bound, 

And  when  wounded,  heal'd  thy  wounds  ^ 

Sought  thee  wand'ring,  set  thee  right, 

Turn'd  thy  darkness  into  light." 
4  "  Can  a  woman's  tender  care 

Cease  toward  the  child  she  bare  ? 

Yes,  she  may  forgetful  be, 

Yet  will  I  remember  thee. 

4  "  Mine  is  an  unchanging  love, 
Higher  than  the  heights  above  : 
Deeper  than  the  depths  beneath, 
Free  and  faithful,  strong  as  death. 

5  "  Thou  shalt  see  my  glory  soon, 
When  the  work  of  grace  is  done  ; 


Hy.  119.  JOHN.  123 

Partner  of  my  throne  shall  be, 
Say,  poor  sinner,  lov'st  thou  me  ?" 

6  Lord  it  is  my  chief  complaint, 
That  my  love  is  weak  and  faint ; 
Yet  I  love  thee  and  adore, 

Oh  for  grace  to  love  thee  more. 

CXIX.  Another. 

1  ?rT^IS  a  point  I  long  to  know, 

X     Oft  it  causes  anxious  thought : 
I>o  I  love  the  Lord,  or  no  ? 
Am  I  his,  or  am  I  not? 

2  If  I  love,  why  am  I  thus  ? 

Why  thus  dull  this  lifeless  frame? 
Hardly,  sure,  can  they  be  worse, 
Who  have  never  heard  his  name  ! 

3  Could  my  heart  so  hard  remain, 
Pray'r  a  task  and  burden  prove  $ 
Ev'ry  trifle  give  me  pain, 

If  I  knew  a  Saviour's  love  ? 
-I  When  1  turn  my  eyes  within, 

All  is  dark,  and  vain,  and  wild  ; 

FillM  with  unbelief  and  sin, 

Can  I  deem  myself  a  child  ? 
5  If  I  pray  or  hear  or  read, 

Sin  is  mix'd  with  all  I  do  ; 

You  that  love  the  Lord  indeed, 

Tell  me,,  is  it  thus  with  you  ? 
$  Yet  I  mourn  my  stubborn  will. 

Find  my  sin  a  grief  and  thrall ; 

Should  I  grieve  for  what  I  feel, 

If  I  did  not  love  at  all  ? 

7  Could  I  joy  his  saints  to  meet, 
Choose  the  ways  I  once  abhorrM, 
Find  at  times  the  promise  sweet, 
If  I  did  not  love  the  Lord  ? 


124 


ACTS. 


Bk.  I 


8  Lord  decide  the  doubtful  case  I 
Thou  who  art  thy  people's  sun  ! 
Shine  upon  thy  work  of  grace, 
if  it  be  indeed  begun. 

§  Let  me  love  thee  more  and  more^ 
If  I  love  at  all,  I  pray  ; 
If  I  have  not  lov'd  before, 
Help  me  to  begin  to-day. 


ACTS.  ■ 

CXX.   The  death  of  STEPHEN 

Chap.  vii.  54 — 60. 

i      A    S  some  tali  rock  amidst  the  waves, 

jL\.   The  fury  of  the  tempest  braves, 

"While  the  fierce  billows  tossing  high, 

Break  at  its  foot ;  and  murm'ring  die. 

2  Thus  they  who  in  the  Lord  confide, 
Tho'  foes  assault  on  every  side, 
Cannot  be  mov'd  or  overthrown, 
For  Jesus  makes  their  cause  his  own. 

3  So  faithful  Stephen  undismay'd, 
The  malice  of  the  Jews  surveyed  ; 
The  holy  joy  which  fill'd  his  breast, 
A  lustre  on  his  face  imprest. 

4  "  Behold  !   (he  said)  the  world  of  light 
Is  open'd  to  my  strengthen'd  sight; 
My  glorious  God  appears  in  view, 
That  Jesus,,  whom  ye  lately  slew.'7 

5  With  such  a  friend  and  witness  near, 
No  form  of  death  could  make  them  fear  j 
Calm,  amidst  showers  of  stones,  he  kneels, 
And  only  for  his  murd'rers  feels. 


Hy.  12i.  ACTS-.  12$ 

6  May  we  by  faith,  perceive  thee  thus, 
Dear  Saviour,  ever  near  to  us  ! 
This  sight  our  peace,  through  life  shall  keep, 
And  death  be  fear'd  no  more  than  sleep. 

CXX1.  The  RebeVs  surrender  to  Grace.    Lord 

ivhat  -wilt  thou  have  me  to  do  ?  Chap.  ix.  6. 

1  T    ORD,  thou  hast  won,  at  length  I  yield, 
JL*  My  heart  by  mighty  grace  compell'd, 

Surrenders  all  to  thee  ; 
Against  thy  terrors  long  I  strove, 
But  who  can  stand  against  thy  love  ? 
Love  conquers  even  me. 

2  All  that  a  wretch  could  do,  I  try'd, 
Thy  patience  scorn'd,  thy  pow'r  defy'd, 

And  trampled  on  thy  laws ; 
Scarcely  thy  martyrs  at  the  stake, 
Could  stand  more  steadfast  for  thy  sake, 

Than  I  in  Satan's  cause. 

3  But  since  thou  hast  thy  love  reveal'd, 
And  shewn  my  soul  a  pardon  seal'd, 

I  can  resist  no  more  : : 
Could'st  thou  for  such  a  sinner  bleed  r 
Canst  thou  for  sueh  a  rebel  plead .? 

I  wonder  and  adore  ! 

4  If  Thou  hadst  bid  thy  thunders  roll, 
And  lightnings  flash  to  blast  my  soul, 

I  still  had  stubborn  been  : 
But  mercy  has  my  ht-art  subdu'd, 
A  bleeding  Saviour  I  have  view'd, 

And  now  I  hate  my  sin. 
3  Now,  Lord  I  would  be  thine  alone, 
Come  take  possession  of  thine  own, 

For  thou  hast  set  me  free  ; 
Reieas'd  from  Satan's  hard  command,. 
See  all  my  powers  a  waiting  stand, 

To  be  employ'd  by  thee. 
L2 


126  ACTS.  liK.  I. 

6  My  will  conform'd  to  thine  would  move, 
On  thee  my  hope,  desire,  and  love, 

•In  fix'd  attention  join  ; 
My  hands,  my  eyes,  my  ears,  my  tongue, 
Have  Satan's  servants  been  too  long, 

But  now  they  shall  be  thine. 

7  And  can  I  be  the  very  same, 

AVho  lately  durst  blaspheme  thy  name, 

And  on  thy  gospel  tread  ? 
Surely  each  one  who  hears  my  case, 
Will  praise  thee,  and  confess  thy  grace 

Invincible  indeed  ! 

CXXJL  PETER  released  from  prison^ 
Chap.  xii.  5 — 1, 

1  T7  E  It  VENT  persevering  pray'rs 
JL  Are  faith's  assur'd  resource  J 
Brazen  gates,  and  iron  bars 

In  vain  withstand  their  force  ; 
Peter  when  in  prison  cast, 
Though  by  soldiers  kept  with  care  ; 
Though  the  doors  were  bolted  fast, 

Was  soon  releas'd  by  pray'r. 
3  While  he  slept  an  angel  came 

And  spread  a  light  around; 
Touch'd  and  call'd  him  by  his  name 

And  rais'd  him  from  the  ground  : 
All  his  chains  and  fetters  burst, 
Kv'ry  door  wide  open  flew  ; 
Peter  thought  he  dream'd  at  first, 

But  found  the  vision  true. 
3  Thus  the  Lord  can  make  a  way 

To  bring  his  saints  relief; 
'Tis  their  part  to  wait  and  pray, 

In  spite  of  unbelief; 
He  can  break  through  walls  of  stone. 
Sink  the^mountain  to  a  plain  : 


Hy.  123.  ACTS.  127 

They,  to  whom  his  name  is  known ? 
Can  never  pray  in  vain. 

0  Thus  in  chains  of  guilt  and  sin, 

Poor  sinners  sleeping  lie; 
No  alarm  is  felt  within, 

Although  condemn'd  to  die  5 
Till  descending  from  above 
(Mercy  smiling  in  his  eyes) 
Jesus,  with  a  voice  of  love 

Awakes,  and  bids  them  rise, 
5  Glad  the  summons  they  obey, 

And  liberty  desire  ; 
Straight  their  fetters  melt  away 

Like  wax  before  the  iire  : 
By  the  word  of  him  who  dy'd. 
Guilty  pris'ners  to  release 
Ev'ry  door  flies  open  wide, 

And  they  depart  in  peace. 

CXXIII.   The  trembling  Gaoler.  Chap,  xviV 
29,  30.— 

1  A     Believer  free  from  care, 

jlIl   May  in  chains,  or  dungeons,  sing, 
(If  the  Lord  be  with  him  there) 
And  be  happier  than  a  king; 
Paul  and  Silas  thus  confinM, 
Though  their  backs  were  torn  by  whips. 
Yet  possessing  peace  of  mind, 
Sung  his  praise  with  joyful  lips. 
2.  Suddenly  the  prison  shook, 
Open  flew  the  iron  doors, 
And  the  gaoler  terror-struck, 
Now  his  captive's  help  implores  : 
Trembling  at  their  feet  he  fell, 
"  Tell  me,  Sirs,  what  must  I  do 
To  be  sav'd  from  guilt  and  hell ; 
Xons  ca.11  tell  me  this  but  yoiw' 


V2H  ACTS.  Bk.  I; 

3  "  Look  to  Jesus,  (they  reply'd,) 
If  on  him  thou  canst  believe  ; 
By  the  death  which  he  has  dy'd, 
Thou  salvation  shalt  receive  :" 
While  the  living  word  he  heard, 
Faith  sprung  up  within  his  heart ; 
And  releas'd  from  all  he  fear'd, 
In  their  joys  his  soul  had  part. 

4  Sinners,  Christ  is  still  the  same, 
O  that  you  could  likewise  fear  ! 
Then  the  mention  of  his  name 
Would  be  music  to  your  ear  : 
Jesus  rescues  Satan's  slaves, 

His  dear  wounds  still  plead,  "  Forgive  J" 
Jesus  to  the  utmost  saves  ; 
-  Sinners,  look  to  him  and  live. 

CXXIV.    The  Exorcists.  Chap.  xix.   13—- 16. 

1   T1THEN  the  apostle  wonders  wrought 
V  V    And  healM  the  sick  in  Jesus'  name. 
The  sons  of  Sceva  vainly  thought, 
That  they  had  pow'r  to  do  the  same. 

3  On  one  possess'd  they  try'd  their  art, 
And  naming  Jesus  preach'd  by  Paul, 
They  charg'd  the  spirit  to  depart, 
Expecting  he'd  obey  their  call. 

3  The  spirit  answer'd  with  a  mock, 
"  Jesus  I  know,  and  Paul  I  know ; 

I  must  have  gone  if  Pdul  had  spoke  : 
But  who  are  ye  that  bid  me  go  V* 

4  With  fury  then  the  man  he  fill'd, 
Who  on  the  poor  pretenders  flew  ; 
Naked  and  wounded,  almost  kill'd, 
They  fled  in  all  the  people's  view. 

3  Jesus  !  that  name  pronoune'd  by  faith, 
Is  full  of  wonder-working  pow'r  $ 


Ky.  12?.  ACTS.  1.29 

It  conquers  Satan,  sin  and  death, 
And  cheers  in  trouble's  darkest  hour. 

G  But  they  who  are  not  born  again, 
Know  nothing  of  it  but  the  sound  ; 
They  do  but  take  his  name  in  vain, 
"When  most  their  zeal  and  pains  abound, 

7  S:ttan  their  vain  attempts  derides, 
Whether  they  talk,  or  pray,  or  preach  ; 
Long  as  the  love  of  sin  abides, 

His  pow'r  is  safe  beyond  their  reach. 

8  But  you,  believers,  may  rejoice, 
Satan  well  knows  your  mighty  friend  ; 
He  trembles  at  your  Saviour's  voice, 
And  owns  he  cannot  gain  his  end. 

CXXV.  PAUL'S  Voyage.  Chap,  xxvii, 

1  TF  Paul  in  Caesar's  court  muststandj 
X  He  need  not  fear  the  sea  ; 
Secur'd  from  harm  on  ev'ry  hand 

By  the  divine  decree^ 

2  Although  the  ship  in  which  he  saiPd, 

By  dreadful  storms  was  toss'd  ; 
The  promise  over  all  prevail'd, 
And  not  a  life  was  lost* 

3  Jesus  !  the  God  whom  Paul  ador'd, 

Who  saves  in  time  of  need  ; 
Was  then  confess'd,  by  all  on  board, 
A  present  help  indeed  ! 

4  Though  neither  sun  nor  stars  were  seen, 

Paul  knew  the  Lord  was  near  ; 
And  faith  preserv'd  his  soul  serene, 
When  other's  shook  for  fear.. 

5  Believers  thus  are  toss'd  about, 

On  life's  tempestuous  main  i 


13©  ROMANS.  Bk.  L 

But  grace  assures,  beyond  a  doubt, 
They  shall  their  port  attain. 

6  They  must,  they  shall  appear  one  day, 

Before  their  Saviour's  throne ; 
The  storms  they  meet  with  by  the  way, 
But  make  his  power  known. 

7  Their  passage  lies  across  the  brink 

Of  many  a  threatening  wave  ; 
The  world  expects  to  see  them  sink, 
But  Jesus  lives  to  save. 

8  Lord,  tho'  we  are  but  feeble  worms, 

Yet  since  thy  word  is  past, 
We'll  venture  thro'  a  thousand  storms. 
To  see  thy  face  at  last. 


ROMANS. 

CXXYL   The  good  that  I  wouId9 1  do  not. 
Chap,  vii.19. 

I  Would,  but  cannot  sing, 
Guilt  has  untun'd  my  voice  ; 
The  serpent,  sin's  envenom'd  sting, 

Has  poison'd  all  my  joys. 

I  know  the  Lord  is  nigh, 

And  would  but  cannot  pray, 
For  Satan  meets  me  when  I  try, 

And  frights  my  soul  away. 

I  would,  but  can't  repent, 

Tho'  I  endeavour  oft ; 
This  stony  heart  can  ne'er  relent 

Till  Jesus  make  it  soft. 

I  would,  but  cannot  love, 

Tho'  woo'd  by  love  divine  ; 


Hy.  12r.  ROMANS.  131 

No  arguments  has  power  to  move, 
A  soul  so  base  as  mine. 

5  I  would,  but  cannot  rest 
In  God's  most  holy  will ; 

I  know  what  he  appoints  is  best, 
Yet  murmur  at  it  still. 

6  O  could  I  but  believe  ! 
Then  all  would  easy  be  ; 

I  would  but  cannot, — Lord,  relieve, 
My  help  must  come  from  thee. 

7  But  if  indeed  I  ivou  V, 
Tho'  I  can  nothing  do  ; 

Yet  the  desire  is  something  good, 
For  which  my  praise  is  due. 

8  By  nature  prone  to  ill, 
Till  thine  appointed  hour, 

I  was  as  destitute  of  will, 
As  now  I  am  of  pow'r. 
§       Wilt  thou  not  crown  at  length, 
The  work  thou  hast  begun  ! 
And  with  a  will,  afford  me  strength, 
In  all  thy  ways  to  run. 

CXX"VII.  Salvation  drawing- nearer.  Chap,  xiii 

1  TH\  ARKNESS  overspreads  us  here, 
XJ  But  the  night  wears  fast  away  : 
Jacob's  star  will  soon  appear, 
Leading  on  eternal  day  ! 

Now  'tis  time  to  rouse  from  sleep, 
Trim  our  lamps  and  stand  prepar'd  ; 
For  our  Lord  strict  watch  to  keep, 
Lest  he  find  us  off  our  guard. 

2  Let  his  people  courage  take, 
Bear  with  a  submissive  mind 
All  they  suffer  for  his  sake, 
Rich  amends  thev  soon  will  find  - 


132  I.  CORINTHIANS.         Bk.  I. 

He  will  wipe  away  their  tears, 
Near  himself  appoint  their  lot ; 
All  their  sorrows,  pains,  and  fears, 
Quickly  then  will  be  forgot. 

4  Tho'  already  sav'd  by  grace, 
From  the  hour  we  first  believ'd  ; 
Yet  while  sin  and  war  have  place, 
We  have  but  a  part  receiv'd  ; 
Still  we  for  salvation  wait, 
Ev'ry  hour  it  nearer  conies  ! 
Death  will  break  the  prison  gate, 
And  admit  us  to  our  homes. 

4  Sinners,  what  can  you  expect ; 
You  who  now  the  Saviour  dare  ; 
Break  his  laws,  his  grace  reject, 
You  must  stand  before  his  bar  ! 
Tremble,  lest  he  say,  depart ! 
Oh  the  horrors  of  that  sound  ! 
Lord,  make  ev'ry  careless  heart, 
Seek  thee  while  thou  mav'st  be  found. 


I.  CORINTHIANS. 
CXXVIII.  That  Rock  was  Chrht.  Chap.  x.  4. 

1  T  ^  THEN  Israel's  tribes  were  parch'd  with 

VV  thirst, 

Forth  from  the  rock  the  waters  burst : 
And  all  their  future  journey  thro' 
Yielded  them  drink,  and  gospel  too  ! 

2  In  Moses'  rod  a  type  they  saw, 
Of  his  severe  and  fiery  law  : 
The  smitten  rock  prefigur'd  him, 

From  whose  pierc'd  side  all  blessings  stream 


Hy.  129.     II.  CORINTHIANS.  133 

3  But  ah  !  the  types  were  all  too  faint, 
His  sorrows  or  his  worth  to  paint : 
Slight  was  the  stroke  of  Moses'  rod, 
But  he  endur'd  the  wrath  of  God. 

4  Their  outward  rock  could  feel  no  pain, 
But  our's  was  wbunded,  torn,  and  slain  ; 
The  rock  gave  but  a  watry  flood, 

But  Jesus  pour'd  forth  streams  of  blood. 

5  The  earth  is  like  their  wilderness, 

A  land  of  drought  and  sore  distress  ; 
Without  one  stream  from  pole  to  pole, 
To  satisfy  a  thirsty  soul. 

6  But  let  the  Saviour's  praise  resound  ; 
In  him  refreshing  streams  are  found, 
Which  pardon,  strength,  and  comfort  give, 
And  thirstv  sinners  drink  and  live. 


II.  CORINTHIANS. 

CXXIX.  My  grace  is  sufficient  for  thee. 
Chap.  xii.  9. 

OPPRESS'D  with  unbelief  and  sin, 
Fightings  without  and  fears  within  ; 
While  earth  and  hell,  with  force  combin'dj 
Assault  and  terrify  my  mind. 

What  strength  have  I  against  such  foes, 
Such  hosts  and  legions  to  oppose? 
Alas  !  I  tremble,  faint,  and  fall  ; 
Lord,  save  me,  or  I  give  up  all. 

Thus  sorely  prest  I  sought  the  Lord, 
£o  give  me  some  sweet  cheering  word  .* 
Again  I  sought,  and  yet  again ; 
I  waited  long  but  not  in  vain. 
M 


134  GALATIANS.  Bk.  I. 

4  Oh  !  'twas  a  cheering  word  indeed  ! 
Exactly  suited  to  my  need ; 

"  Sufficient  for  thee  is  my  grace, 

Thy  weakness  my  great  pow'r  displays." 

5  Now  I  despond  and  mourn  no  more, 
I  welcome  all  I  fear'd  before  ; 

Tho'  weak,  I'm  strong  ;  tho'  troubled,  blest, 
For  Christ's  own  pow'r  shall  on  me  rest. 

6  My  grace  would  soon  exhausted  be, 
But  his  is  boundless  as  the  sea  ; 
Then  let  me  boast  with  holy  Paul, 
That  I  am  nothing,  Christ  is  all ! 


GALATIANS. 
CXXX.   The  inward  warfare.  Chap.  v.  1 T. 

STRANGE  and  mysterious  is  my  life, 
What  opposites  I  feel  within  ! 
A  stable  peace,  a  constant  strife  ; 
The  rule  of  grace,  the  power  of  sin ; 
Too  often  I  am  captive  led, 
Yet  daily  triumph  in  my  head. 
!  I  prize  the  privilege  of  pray 'r 
But  oh  !  what  backwardness  to  pray, 
Though  on  the  Lord  I  cast  my  care, 
I  feel  its  burden  ev'ry  day  : 
I  seek  his  will  in  all  I  do, 
Yet  find  my  own  is  working  too. 
►  1  call  the  promises  my  own, 
And  prize  them  more  than  mines  of  gold  ; 
Yet  though  their  sweetness  I  have  known 
They  leave  me  unimpress'd  and  cold  j 
One  hour  upon  the  truth  I  feed, 
The  next  I  know  not  what  I  read. 


Hy.  131.         PHILIPPIANS.  134 

4  I  love  the  holy  day  of  rest, 

When  Jesus  meets  his  gather'd  saints  : 
Sweet  day  !  of  all  the  week  is  best ; 
For  its  return  my  spirit  pants  : 
Yet  often,  through  my  unbelief, 
It  proves  a  day  of  guilt  and  grief. 

5  While  on  my  Saviour  I  rely, 

I  know  my  foes  shall  lose  their  aim ; 
And  therefore  dare  their  pow'r  defy, 
Assur'd  of  conquest  through  his  name  : 
Bat  soon  my  confidence  is  slain, 
And  all  my  fears  return  again. 

6  Thus  difTrent  powers  within  me  strive, 
And  grace  and  sin  by  turns  prevail ; 

I  grieve,  rejoice,  decline,  revive, 
And  vict'ry  hangs  in  doubtful  scale  : 
But  Jesus  has  his  promise  past, 
That  grace  shall  overcome  at  last. 


PHILIPPIANS. 

CXXXI.  (c)  Contentment.  (1.)  Chap.  iv.  11. 

1    TT^IERCE  passions  discompose  the  mind-, 
JL    As  tempests  vex  the  sea ; 
But  calm  content  and  peace  we  find, 
When,  Lord,  we  turn  to  thee. 

S  In  vain  by  reason  and  by  rule, 
We  try  to  bend  the  will ; 
For  none  but  in  the  Saviour's  school, 
Can  learn  the  heav'nly  skill. 

3  Since  at  his  feet  my  soul  has  sat, 
His  gracious  words  to  hear, 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  55, 


136  HEBREWS.  Bk.  h 

Contented  with  my  present  state, 
I  cast  on  him  my  care. 

4  "  Art  thou  a  sinner,  soul  ?  (he  said) 
Then  how  canst  thou  complain  ? 
How  light  thy  troubles  here,  if  weigh'd 
With  everlasting  pain. 

3  "  If  thou  of  murmuring  would'st  be  cur'd 
Compare  thy  griefs  with  mine  ; 
Think  what  my  love  for  thee  endur'd, 
And  thou  wilt  not  repine. 

6  "  'Tis  I  appoint  thy  daily  lot, 

And  I  do  all  things  well  ; 
Thou  soon  shalt  leave  this  wretched  spot, 
And  rise  with  me  to  dwell. 

7  ."  In  life,  my  grace  shall  strength  supply, 

Proportion'd  to  thy  day  ; 
At  death,  thou  still  shalt  find  me  nigh, 
To  wipe  thy  tears  away." 

*  Thus  I  who  once  my  wretched  days, 
In  vain  repinings  spent; 
Taught  in  my  Saviour's  school  of  grace, 
Have  learn'd  to  be  content. 


HEBREWS. 

CXXXIL'(c)  Old  Testament  Gospel.  Chap.  iy.  % 

1        T  SRAEL  in  ancient  day, 

X  Not  only  had  a  view 

Of  Sinai  in  a  blaze, 

But  learn'd  the  Gospel  too  : 
The  types  and  figures  were  a  glass, 
In  which  they  saw  the  Saviour's  face. 


Hy.  132.  HEBREWS.  13? 

2  The  paschal  sacrifice, 

And  blood-besprinkled  door  (l), 

Seen  with  enlightened  eyes, 

And  once  apply'd  with  power, 
Would  teach  the  need  of  other  blood, 
To  reconcile  an  angry  God. 

3  The  Lamb,  the  Dove,  set  forth, 
His  perfect  innocence  (2), 
Whose  blood  of  matchless  worth, 
Should  be  the  soul's  defence  ; 

For  he  who  can  for  sin  atone, 
Must  have  no  failings  of  his  own. 

4  The  scape  goat  on  his  head  (3) 
The  people's  trespass  bore, 
And  to  this  desert  led, 

Was  to  be  seen  no  more  : 
In  him  our  surety  seem'd  to  say, 
"  Behold  I  bear  your  sins  away.'3 

■&■      Dipt  in  his  fellow's  blood, 

The  living  bird  went  free  (4)  ; 

The  type  well  understood, 

Express'd  the  sinner's  plea  ; 
Describ'd  a  guilty  soul  enlarg'd, 
And  by  a  Saviour's  death  discharg'd* 

6       Jesus,  I  love  to  trace 

Throughout  the  sacred  page  $ 

The  footsteps  of  thy  grace, 

The  same  in  ev'ry  age  ! 
O  grant  that  I  may  faithful  be 
To  clearer  light  vouchsaf  ?d  to  me» 

(1)  Exodus  xii.  13.        (2)  Lev.  xii.  6.      (3)  Lev.  s*  6.  & 

(4)  Lev.  xiv.  51— 53. 

H  % 


tm  HEBREWS.  Bk.  h 

CXXXIII.   The  Word  quick  and  powerful* 
Chap.  iv.  12,13. 

%     npIIE  word  of  Christ  our  Lord, 
A     With  whom  we  have  to  do  ; 
Is  sharper  than  a  two-edgM  sword, 
To  pierce  the  sinner  through  ! 
5>       Swift  as  the  lightning's  blaze, 
When  awful  thunders  roll, 
It  fills  the  conscience  with  amaze, 
And  penetrates  the  soul. 
No  heart  can  be  conceal'd 
"From  his  all-piercing  eyes, 
Each  thought  and  purpose  stands  revealed; 
Naked,  without  disguise. 
i*       He  sees  his  people's  fears, 
He  notes  their  mournful  cry, 
He  counts  their  sighs  and  falling  tears, 
And  helps  them  from  on  high. 
3-       Tho'  feeble  is  their  good, 
It  has  his  kind  regard  ; 
Yea,  all  they  would  do  if  they  could  (1) 
Shall  find  a  sure  reward. 
*       He  sees  the  wicked  too, 
And  will  repay  them  soon, 
For  all  the  evil  deeds  they  do, 

And  all  'hey  would  have  done  (2)* 
7       Since  all  our  secret  ways 

Are  mark'd  and  known  by  thee, 
Afford  us,  Lord,  thy  light  of  grace, 
That  we  ourselves  may  see. 

CXXXIV.  Looking1  unto  Jesus.  Chap.  xii.  £♦ 

i    T)Y  Various  maxims,  forms,  and  rules, 
JD   That  pass  for  wisdom  in  the  schoois? 

>c3)  1  Kings  viii.  18.  (2)  Matt.  v.  £8. 


Hy.  135.  HEBREWS,  l^ 

I  strove  my  passion  to  restrain  ; 
But  all  my  efforts  prov'd  in  vain, 

2  But  since  the  Saviour  I  have  knowns 
My  rules  are  all  reduc'd  to  one  ; 

To  keep  my  Lord  by  faith  in  view, 
This  strength  supplies  and  motives  too* 

3  I  see  him  lead  a  sufPring  life, 
Patient  amidst  reproach  and  strife  ; 
And  from  this  pattern  courage  take 
To  be>ar,  and  suffer  for  his  sake. 

4  Upon  the  cross  I  see  him  bleed, 

And  by  the  sight  from  guilt  am  freed  £ 
This  sight  destroys  the  life  of  sin, 
And  quickens  heav'nly  life  within, 
&  To  look  to  Jesus  as  he  rose, 

Confirms  my  faith,  disarms  my  foes  |    ■ 

Satan  I  shame  and  overcome, 

By  pointing  to  my  Saviour's  tomb, 

6  Exalted  on  his  glorious  throne, 

I  see  him  make  my  cause  his  own  j. 
Then  all  my  anxious  cares  subside 
For  Jesus  lives  and  will  provide. 

7  I  see  him  look  with  pity  down, 

And  hold  in  view  the  conq'rors  crown  \ 
If  press'd  with  griefs  and  eares  before, 
My  soul  revives,  nor  asks  for  more. 
3>  By  faith  I  see  the  hour  at  hand, 
When  in  his  presence  I  shall  stand  i 
Then  it  will  be  my  endless  bliss, 
To  see  him  where  and  as  he  is. 

CXXXV.  Love-Tokens*  Chap.  xii.  5 — IjL 
'%     A    FFLTCTIONS  do  not  come  alone,* 
X\.    A  voice  attends  the  rod  ; 
By  both  he  to  his  saints  is  known, 
A  Father  and  a  God! 


140  REVELATION.  Bk.  J; 

3  i(  Let  not  my  children  slight  the  stroke 
I  for  chastisement  send  ; 
Nor  faint  beneath  my  kind  rebuke, 
For  I  am  still  their  friend. 

3  u  The  wicked  I  perhaps  may  leave 

A  while,  and  not  reprove  ; 
But  all  the  children  I  receive, 
I  scourge,  because  I  love. 

4  "  If  therefore  we  were  left  without 

This  needful  discipline ; 
You  might  with  cause  admit  a  doubt* 

If  you,  indeed,  were  mine. 
3  "  Shall  earthly  parents  then  expect 

Their  children  to  submit  I 
And  will  not  you,  when  I  correct, 

Be  humbled  at  my  feet  ? 
0  "  To  please  themselves  they  oft  chastise, 

And  put  their  sons  to  pain  ; 
But  you  are  precious  in  my  eyes, 

And  shall  not  smart  in  vain. 

7  u  I  see  your  hearts  at  present  fill'd 

With  grief  and  deep  distress  ; 
But  soon  these  bitter  seeds  shall  yield 
The  fruits  of  righteousness. " 

8  Break  thro'  the  clouds,  dear  Lord,  and  shine^ 

Let  us  perceive  thee  nigh  ! 
And  to  each  mourning  child  of  thine 
These  gracious  words  apply. 


REVELATION. 

CXXXVI.  EPHESUS.  Chap  ii.  1— r. 
1   ^j    HUS  saith  the  Lord  to  Ephesus, 
X    And  thus  he  speaks  to  some  of  us ; 


Hy.  137.  REVELATION.  141 

11  Amidst  my  churches,  lo,  I  stand, 
And  hold  the  pastors  in  my  hand. 

2  "  Thy  works  to  me  are  fully  known, 
Thy  patience,  and  thy  toil  I  own, 
Thy  views  of  gospel  truth  are  clear, 
Nor  can'st  thou  other  doctrine  bear. 

3  "  Yet  I  must  blame  while  1  approve  ; 
Where  is  thy  first,  thy  fervent  love  ? 
Dost  thou  forget  my  love  to  thee, 
That  thine  is  grown  so  faint  to  me  I 

4  "  Recall  to  mind  the  happy  days 

When  thou  wast  fill'd  with  joy  and  praise  j 
Repent,  thy  former  works  renew, 
Then  I'll  restore  thy  comforts  too. 

5  "  Return  at  once,  when  I  reprove, 
Lest  I  thy  candlestick  remove  $ 
And  thou,  too  late,  thy  loss  lament, 
I  warn  before  I  strike, — Repent." 

6  Hearken  to  what  the  Spirit  saith, 
To  him  that  overcomes  by  faith  ; 

"  The  fruit  of  life's  unfading  tree, 
In  paradise  his  food  shall  be." 

•CXXXVII.  Smyrna.  Chap.  ii.  11. 

1  f  i  ^HE  message  first  to  Smyrna  sent, 

A.     A  message  full  of  grace  ; 
To  all  the  Saviour's  flock  is  meant, 
In  ev'ry  age  and  place. 

2  Thus  to  his  church  his  chosen  bride, 

Saith  the  great  First  and  Last, 
Who  ever  lives,  tho'  once  he  dy'd, 
"  Hold  thy  profession  fast. 

3  "  Thy  works  and  sorrows  well  I  know, 

Perform'd  and  borne  for  me  ; 
Poor  tho'  thou  art,  despis'd  and  low, 
Yet  who  is  rich  like  thee. 


142  REVELATION.  Bk.  I. 

4"I  know  thy  foes,  and  what  they  say, 
How  long  they  have  blasphem'd  ; 
The  synagogue  of  Satan,  they, 
Tho'  they  would  Jews  be  deem'd. 
5  "  Tho'  Satan  for  a  season  rage, 
And  prison  be  your  lot  ; 
I  am  your  friend,  and  I  engage 
You  shall  not  be  forgot. 
G  "  Be  faithful  unto  death,  nor  fear 
A  few  short  days  of  strife  ; 
Behold  !  the  prize  you  soon  shall  wear 
A  crown  of  endless  life  !" 
7  Hear  what  the  holy  Spirit  saith 
Of  all  who  overcome  ; 
"  They  shall  escape  the  second  death, 
The  sinner's  awful  doom  !" 

CXXXVIII.  (c)  Sardia.  Chap.  iii.  1— $. 

1  "  TI  TRITE  to  Sardis  (saith  the  Lord) 

V  V    And  write  what  he  declares ; 
He  whose  Spirit,  and  whose  word, 

Upholds  the  seven  stars  : 
All  thy  works  and  ways  I  search, 
Find  thy  zeal  and  love  decayM  } 
Thou  art  call'd  a  living  church, 

But  thou  art  cold  and  dead. 

2  *  Watch,  remember,  seek  and  strive, 

Exert  your  former  pains  : 
Let  thy  timely  care  revive, 

And  strengthen  what  remains  : 
Cleanse  thin^  heart,  thy  works  amend, 
Former  times  to  mind  recall ; 
Lest  my  sudden  stroke  descend, 

And  smite  thee  once  for  all. 

3  "  Yet  I  number  now  in  thee 

A  few  that  are  upright ; 


Hy.  139, 140.  REVELATION.  143 

These  my  Father's  face  shall  see, 

And  walk  with  me  in  white  : 
When  in  judgment  I  appear, 
They  for  mine  shall  be  confest ; 
Let  my  faithful  servants  hear, 

<And  woe  be  to  the  rest." 

CXXXIX.  Philadelphia.  Chap.  iii.  7—13, 

1  *TpHUS  saith  the  holy  One,  and  true, 

X  To  his  beloved  faithful  few  ; 

"  Of  heav'n  and  hell  I  hold  the  keys, 
To  shut  or  open  as  I  please. 

2  I  know  thy  work,  and  I  approve, 
Though  small  thy  strength,  sincere  thy  love  ; 
Go  on  my  word  and  name  to  own, 

For  none  shall  rob  thee  of  thy  crown. 
8  "  Before  thee  see  my  mercy's  door 
Stands  open  wide  to  shut  no  more  ; 
Fear  not  temptations  fiery  day, 
For  I  will  be  thy  strength  and  stay. 

4  "  Thou  hast  my  promise,  hold  it  fast, 
The  trying  hour  will  soon  be  past ; 
Rejoice,  for  lo  !  I  quickly  come, 

To  take  thee  to  my  heavenly  home. 

5  "  A  pillar  there  no  more  to  move, 
Inscrib'd  with  all  my  names  of  love  / 
A  monument  of  mighty  grace, 
Thou  shalt  for  ever  have  a  place." 

6  Such  is  the  conqueror's  reward, 
Prepar'd  and  promis'd  by  the  Lord  ! 
Let  Rim  that  hath  the  ear  of  faith, 
Attend  to  what  the  Spirit  saith. 

CXL.  Laodkea*  Chap.  iii.  14 — 20. 

1   TTEAR  what  the  Lord,  the  great  Amen, 

XI  The  true  and  faithful  witness,  says  ! 


144  REVELATION.  Bk.  I 

He  form'd  the  vast  creation's  plan, 
And  searches  all  our  hearts  and  ways. 

2  To  some  he  speaks  as  once  of  old, 

"  I  know  thee,  thy  profession's  vain  ; 
Since  thou  art  neither  hot  nor  cold 
I'll  spit  thee  from  me  with  disdain, 

3  "  Thou  boasted,  I  am  wise  and  rich, 
Encreas'd  in  goods  and  nothing  need  ; 
And  dost  not  know  thou  art  a  wretch, 
Naked  and  poor,  and  blind,  and  dead. 

4  u  Yet  while  I  thus  rebuke,  I  love, 
My  message  is  in  mercy  sent ; 

That  thou  may'st  my  compassion  prove, 
I  can  forgive  if  thou  repent. 

5  "  "Would'st  thou  be  truly  rich  and  wise? 
Come  buy  my  gold  in  fire  well  try'd, 
My  ointment  to  anoint  thine  eyes, 

My  robe  thy  nakedness  to  hide. 
5  "  See  at  thy  door  I  stand  and  knock  ! 
Poor  sinner,  shall  I  wait  in  vain  ? 
Quickly  thy  stubborn  heart  unlock, 
That  I  may  enter  with  my  train. 
"Thou  canst  not  entertain  a  king, 
Unworthy  thou  of  such  a  guest  I 
But  I  my  own  provisions  bring, 
To  make  thy  soul  a  heav'nly  feast." 

CNLI.  The  little  Book.  (1.)  Chap.  x. 

WHEN  the  belov'd  disciple  took 
The  angel's  little  open  book  ; 
"Which  by  the  Lord's  command  he  eat, 
It  tasted  bitter  after  sweet. 
:  Thus  when  the  Gospel  is  embrac'd, 
At  first  'tis  sweeter  to  the  taste 

(1)  Book.  III.  Hymn  27. 


Hy.  141,         REVELATION.  145 

Than  honey,  or  the  honey  comb, 
But  there's  a  bitterness  to  come. 

3  What  sweetness  does  the  promise  yield, 
When  by  the  Spirit's  power  seal'd  ? 
The  longing  soul  is  fill'd  with  good, 
Nor  feels  a  wish  for  other  food. 

4  By  these   inviting  tastes  allur'd, 
We  pass  to  what  must  be  endur'd  ; 
For  soon  we  find  it  is  decreed, 
That  bitter  must  to  sweet  succeed. 

5  When  sin  revives  and  shews  its  power*, 
When  Satan  threatens  to  devour, 
When  God  afflicts  and  men  revile, 

We  draw  our  steps  with  pain  and  toiL 

6  When  thus  deserted,  tempest-tost, 
The  sense  of  former  sweetness  lost ; 

We  tremble  lest  we  were  deceiv'd  » 

In  thinking  that  we  once  believ'd. 

7  The  Lord  first  makes  the  sweetness  known. 
To  win  and  fix  us  for  his  own  ; 

And  though  we  now  some  bitter  meet. 
We  hope  for  everlasting  sweet. 


N 


A  . 

TABLE 


TO  THE  FIRST  BOOK 


According  to  the  Order  and  Subject  of  the  Hymns. 


GENESIS. 


Chap. 


3 
4 

5 
13 

22 

25 


32 


Hymn. 

i  Adam 

2  Cain  and  Abel 

3  *)       Walking 

4  J    with  God 

5  Lot  in  Sodom 
6\   The  Lord 

7  J    will  provide 

8  Esau 

9  Jacob's  Ladder 

10  My  name  is 
Jacob 

11  Plenty  in  dearth  41 

12  Jos.  made  known 
to  his  brethren       45 

EXODUS. 

13  The  bitter  waters  15 

14  Jehovah-Rophi    15 

15  Manna  16 

16  Manna  hoarded  16 

17  Jehovah-Nissi      17 

18  The  golden  calf  32 

LEVITICUS. 

19  The  true  maron     8 


NUMBERS. 

Hymn.  Cha^. 

20  Balaam's  wish     23 


JOSHUA. 

21  Gibeon 


10 


JUDGES. 

22  Jehovah -Shallom  6 

23  Gideon's  fleece       6 

24  Samson's  lion       14 

I.  SAMUEL. 

25  Hannah  or  the 
throne  of  grace      1 

26  Dagon  before 

the  Ark  5 

27  Milch  kine  draw- 
ing the  Ark  6 

28  Saul's  armour      17 


II.  SAMUEL. 

29  David's  fall  12 

30  Is  this  thy  kind- 
ness to  thy  friend  16 


148 


A  TABLE. 


I.  KINGS. 

Hymn.  Chap. 

31  "J   Ask  what  I  shall 
3£  >      give  thee  3 

33  J 

34  Queen  of  Sheba  10 

35  Elijah  fed  by 
Ravens  1 7 

36  The  meal  and 
cruse  of  oil  17 


II.  KINGS. 

37  Jericho  or  the 
waters  healed         2 

38  Naaman  5 

39  The  borrowed  axe  6 

40  More  with  us  than 
with  them.  6 

I.  CHRONICLES, 

41  Faith's   review 
and  expectation  17 

NEJIEMIAH. 

42  The  joy  of  the 

Lord    is   our 
strength  9 

JOB. 

43  0  that  I  were  as 
in  months  past     29 

44  The  change  29 

PSALMS. 

45  Pleading  for 
mercy  6 

46  None  upon  earth 
besides  thee         73 


PSALMS. 
Hymn.  Chap. 

47 ")    The  believer's 

48  J       safety.  91 

49  He  led  them  by 

a  right  way  107 

50  What  shall  I 
render  116 

51  X) welling   in 


Mestch 


120 


PRO\ERBS. 

52  Wisdom  8 

53  A  friend  thatstick- 
eth  closer  than  a 
brother  1 8 

ECCLES1ASTES. 

54  Vanity  of  life  1 

55  Vanity  of  the 
world  1 

56  Vanity  of  crea- 
tures sanctified      1 

SOLOMON'S  SONG. 

57  The  name  of  Jesus 

ISAIAH. 

58  O  Lord  I  will 
praise  thee  12 

59  The  River,  Re- 
fuge, and  Rock 
of  the  church        32 

60  Zion  or  the  city 
of  God  33 

61  Look  unto  me 
and  be  ve  saved  45 


A  TABLE. 


149 


ISAIAH. 

Hymn.  Chap. 

62  The  good  Phy- 
sician 45 

63  To  the  afflicted  54 

64  The   contrite 
heart  57 

65  The  future  peace 
and  glory  of  the 
church  60 

JEREMIAH. 

66  Trust  of  the 
righteous  and 
wicked  17 

67  Jehovah  our 

,    righteousness       23 

68  Ephraim.  re- 
penting 31 

LAMENTATIONS. 

69  The  Lord  is  my     3 
portion 

EZEKIEL. 

70  Humbled  and  si- 
lenced by  mercy  16 

71  The  covenant      36 

72  Jehovah  Sham- 
man  48 

DANIEL. 

73  The  power  and 
triumph  of  faith  3,6 

74  Belshazzar  5 

JONAH. 

.75  The  gourd  4 


ZECHARIAH. 

H>  mn.  Chap. 

76  Prayer  for  the 
Lord's  presence     2 

77  A  brand  plucked 
out  of  the  fire  3 

78  On  one  stone 
shall  be  seven 
eyes  3 

79  Praise  for  the 
foundation  open- 
ed        

MALACHI. 

80  They  shall  be 
mine  saith  the 
Lord  3 

MATTHEW. 

81  The  beggar  7 

82  The  leper  8 

83  A  sick  soul  9 

84  Satan  returning  12 

85  The  sower  13 

86  Wheat  and  tares  13 

87  Peter  walking 

on  the  waters       14 

88  Woman  of  Ca- 
naan 15 

89  What  think  ye 
of  Christ  ? 

90  The  foolish  vir- 
gins 25 

91  Peter  sinning 

and  repenting      26 

MARK. 

92  Legion  disposses- 
ed  5 

N  2 


150 


A  TABLE 


MARK. 

Hymn.  Ghap. 

93   The  ruler's 

daughter  raised     5 
94-  But  one  loaf  8 

95  Bar  time  us  10 

96  House  of  prayer  11 

97  The  blasted  fig- 
tree  11 


LUKE. 

98  The  two  debtors  7 

99  The  good  Sama- 
ritan 10 

100  Martha  and 
Mary  10 

101  The  heart 
taken  1 1 

102  The  worldling  12 

103  Barren  fig-tree  13 

104  The  prodigal      15 

105  The  rich  man 
and  Lazarus     16 

106  The  importu- 
nite  widow         18 

107  Zaccheus  19 

108  Believer's  dan- 
ger and  safety  22 

109  Father  forgive 
them  23 

110  The  two  male- 
factors 23 

JOHN. 

111  Woman  of  Sa- 
maria 4 


JOHN. 

Hvmn.  Chap. 

112  \    Pool  of 

113  J    Bethsaida       5 

114  The  disciples 

at  sea  6 

115  Will  ye  also 
go  away  ? 

116  The  resurrec- 
tion and  the 

life  11 

1 1 7  Weeping  Mary  20 

118  ")    Lovest  thou 

119  J    me?  21 

ACTS. 

120  Death  of  Ste- 
phen 7 

121  The  rebel's  sur- 
render to  grace  9 

122  Peter  released 
from  prison        12 

123  The  trembling 
gaoler  16 

124  The  exorcists    19 

125  Paul's  voyage    27 

ROMANS. 

126  The  good  that 

J.  would,  I  do  not  7 

127  Salvation  draw- 
ing nearer  13 

I.  CORINTHIANS. 

128  That  rock  was 
Christ  10 


A  TABLE 


1^1 


II.  CORINTHIANS. 

HEBREWS. 

Hymn.                  Chap. 

Hymn.                   Chap. 

129  My  grace  is  suf- 

133 The  word  quick 

ficient  for  thee   12 

and  powerful       4 



1 34  Looking  unto 

GALATIANS. 

Jesus 

130  The  it  ward 

135  Love  tokens       12 

warfare                 5 

■ 

REVELATION. 

PH1LIPPIANS. 

136  Ephesus                2 

131    Contentment        4 

137  Smyrna                 2 



138  Sardis                     3 

HEBREWS. 

139  Philadelphia        3 

1-32  Old  Testament 

140  Laodicea               3 

gospel                    4 

'l41  The  little  book  10 

END  OF  THE  FIRST  BOOK 


OLNEY  HYMNS,  &c 

BOOK  II. 
ON  OCCASIONAL  SUBJECTS. 


I,.    SEASONS. 

IT.  ORDINANCES, 


III.  PROVIDENCE! 

IV,  CREATION. 


I.  SEASONS. 
NEW-YEAR'S  HYMNS. 

1.   Time  how  swift* 

WHILE  with  ceaseless  course  the  sun 
Hasted  through  the  former  year, 
Many  souls  their  race  have  run, 
Never  more  to  meet  us  here  : 
Fix'd  in  an  eternal  state, 
They  have  done  with  all  below  , 
We  a  little  longer  wait, 
Bat  how  little — -none  can  know. 

As  the  winged  arrow  flies, 
Speedily  the  mark  to  find  ; 
As  the  lightning  from  the  skies, 
Darts,  and  leaves  no  trace  behind  ; 
Swiftly  thus  our  fleeting  days 
B?ar  us  down  life's  rapid  stream  : 
Upwards,  Lord,  our  spirits  raise, 
All  below  is  but  a  dream. 


154  SEASONS.  Bk.  IL 

3  Thanks  for  mercies  past  receive, 
Pardon  of  our  sins  renew, 
Teach  us,  henceforth,  how  to  liv£ 
"With  eternity  in  view  : 
Bless  thy  word  to  young  and  old, 
Fill  us  with  a  Saviour's  love  ; 
And  when  life's  short  tale  is  told, 
May  we  dwell  with  thee  above. 

II.    Time  how  short. 

1  'THIME,  with  an  unwearied  hand, 

_L     Pushes  round  the  seasons  past; 
And  in  life's  frail  glass,  the  sand 
Sinks  apace  not  long  to  last : 
Many,  as  well  as  you  or  I, 
Who  last  year  assembled  thus, 
In  their  silent  graves  now  lie  ; 
Graves  will  open  soon  for  us  ! 

2  Daily  sin,  and  care,  and  strife, 
While  the  Lord  prolongs  our  breathy 
Make  it  but  a  dying  life, 

Or  a  kind  of  living  death  : 
AVretched  they  and  most  forlorn, 
Who  no  better  portion  know  ; 
Better  ne'er  to  have  been  born, 
Than  to  have  our  all  below. 

3  When  constrain'd  to  go  alone, 
Leaving  all  you  love  behind, 
Ent'ring  on  a  world  unknown, 
What  will  then  support  your  mind  ? 
When  the  Lord  his  summons  sends  (1), 
Earthly  comforts  lose  their  pow'r  ; 
Honour,  riches,  kindred,  friends, 
Cannot  cheer  a  dying  hour. 

4  Happy  souls  who  fear  the  Lord, 
Time  is  not  too  swift  for  you  j 

(1)  Isaiah,  x.  3, 


Hy.  3.  SEASONS.  1S5 

When  your  Saviour  gives  the  word, 
Glad  you'll  bid  the  world  adieu  : 
Then  he'll  wipe  away  your  tears, 
Near  himself  appoint  your  place  | 
Swifter  fly,  ye  rolling  years, 
Lord,  we  long  to  see  thy  face. 

III.  Uncertainty  of  Life, 

1  QJ  EE  !  another  year  is  gone  ! 

0  Quickly  have  the  seasons  past ! 
This  we  enter  now  upon 

May  to  many  prove  their  last : 
Mercy  hitherto  has  spar'd, 
But  have  mercies  been  improv'd? 
Let  us  ask,  Am  I  prepar'd  ? 
Should  I  be  this  year  remov'd  ? 

2  Some  ye  now  no  longer  see, 
Who  their  mortal  race  have  run| 
Seem'd  as  fair  for  life  as  we, 
When  the  former  year  begun  ; 
Some,  but  who  God  only  knows, 
Who  are  here  assembled  now, 
Ere  the  present  year  shall  close, 
To  the  stroke  of  death  must  bow. 

3  Life  a  field  of  battle  is, 
Thousands  fall  within  our  view  ; 
And  the  next  death-bolt  that  flies, 
May  be  sent  to  me  or  you  : 

While  we  preach,  and  while  ye  hear, 
Help  us,  Lord,  each  one  to  think, 
Vast  eternity  is  near, 

1  am  standing  on  the  brink. 

4  If  from  guilt  and  sin  set  free, 
By  the  knowledge  of  thy  grace  ; 
Welcome,  then,  the  call  will  be, 
To  depart  and  see  thy  face  $ 


156  SEASONS.  Bk.   II. 

To  thy  saints,  while  here  below, 
With  new  years,  new  mercies  come  ; 
Bui  the  happiest  year  they  know, 
Is  their  last  which  leads  them  home. 

IV.  A  New-Year's  Thought  and  Prayer* 

1  HT^ JME,  by  moments  steals  away, 

X     First  the  hour,  and  then  the  day. 
S;i  11  the  daily  loss  appears, 
Yet  it  soon  amounts  to  years  : 
Thus  another  year  is  flown, 
Now  it  is  no  more  our  own  ; 
If  it  brought  or  promisM  good, 
Than  the  years  before  the  flood. 

2  But  (may  none  of  us  forget) 
It  has  left  us  much  in  debt; 
Favours  from  the  Lord  receiv'd, 
Sins  that  have  his  Spirit  griev'd, 
Mark'd  by  an  unerring  hand, 

In  his  book  recorded  stand  ; 
Who  can  tell  the  vast  amount, 
Piac'd  to  each  of  our  account  ? 

3  Happy  the  believing  soul  \ 
Christ  for  you  has  paid  the  whole  ; 
While  you  own  the  debt  is  large, 
You  may  plead  a  full  discharge  : 
B  it,  poor  careless  sinner  say. 
What  can  you  to  justice  pay? 
Tremble,  lest  when  life  is  past, 
Into  prison  you  be  cast ! 

4  Will  you  still  increase  the  score  ? 
Still  be  careless  as  before? 

Oh,  forbid  it,  gracious  Lord, 
Touch  their  spirits  by  thy  word  ! 
Now,  in  mercy  to  them,  show, 
What  a  mighty  debt  they  owe  f 


Hy.  5.  SEASONS.  15; 

All  their  unbelief  subdue^ 
Let  them  find  forgiveness  too, 

5  Spar'd  to  see  another  year, 
Let  thy  blessing  meet  us  here  ; 
Come,  thy  dying  work  revive, 
Bid  thy  drooping  garden  thrive  ; 
Sun  of  Righteousness  arise  ! 
Warm  our  hearts  and  bless  our  eyes ; 
Let  our  pray'r  thy  bowels  move, 
Make  this  year  a  time  of  love* 


H 


V.  Death  and  War.  1 778. 

ARK  !  how  time's  wide  sounding  bell 
Strikes  on  each  attentive  ear! 


Tolling  loud  the  solemn  knell 
Of  the  late  departed  year  : 
Years,  like  mortals  wear  away, 
Have  their  birth  and  dying  dayj; 
Youthful  spring,  and  wintry  age 
Then  to  others  quit  the  stage. 

Sad  experience  may  relate 
What  a  year  the  last  has  been  I 
Crops  of  sorrow  have  been  great, 
From  the  fruitful  seeds  of  sin : 
Oh  !  What  numbers  gay  and  blithe, 
Fell  by  death's  unsparing  scythe  ? 
While  they  thought  the  world  their  own, 
Suddenly  he  mow'd  them  down. 

See  how  war,  with  dreadful  stride, 
Marches  at  the  Lord's  command  : 
Spreading  desolation  wide, 
Through  a  once  much-favour'd  land : 
War,  with  heart  and  arms  of  steel, 
Preys  on  thousands  at  a  meal  ; 
Daily  drinking  human  gore, 
Still  he  thirsts  and  calls  for  morev 
O 


158  SEASONS.  Uk.  JJ. 

4  If  the  God,  whom  we  provoke, 

Hither  should  his  way  direct ; 

What  a  sin-avenging  stroke 

May  a  land  like  this  expect! 

They  who  now  securely  sleep, 

Quickly  then  would  wake  and  weep; 

And  too  late  would  learn  to  fear, 

When  they  saw  the  danger  near. 
3  You  are  safe  who  know  his  love, 

He  will  all  his  truth  perform  ; 

To  your  souls  a  refuge  prove, 

From  the  rage  of  ev'ry  storm  : 

But  we  tremble  for  the  youth  ; 

Teach  them,  Lord,  thy  saving  truth  ; 
Join  them  to  thy  faithful  fG\vt 

Be  to  them  a  refuge  too. 

VI.  Earthly  prospects  deceitful. 

1  /^vFT  in  vain  the  voice  of  truth, 
\J    Solemnly  and  loudly  warns  ; 
Thoughtless,  unexperienc'd  youth ; 
Though  it  hears,  the  warning  scorns  : 
Youth  in  fancy's  glass  surveys 

Life  prolonged  to  distant  years, 
While  the  vast  imagin'd  space 
Fill'd  with  sweets  and  joys  appears. 

2  Awful  disappointment,  soon 
Overclouds  the  prospect  gay  ; 
Some  their  sun  goes  down  at  noon, 
Torn  by  death's  strong  hand  away  : 
Wliere  are  then  their  pleasing  schemes  ? 
Where  the  joys  they  hop'd  to  find  ? 
Gone  for  ever,  like  their  dreams, 
Leaving  not  a  trace  behind. 

3  Others,  who  are  spar'd  awhile, 
Live  to  weep  o'er  fancy's  cheat ; 


ftY.  7.  SEASONS.  159 

Find  distress,  and  pain,  and  toil, 
Bitter  things  instead  of  sweet : 
Sin  has  spread  a  curse  around, 
Poison'd  all  things  here  below ; 
On  this  base  polluted  ground, 
Peace  and  joy  can  never  grow. 

4  Grace  alone  can  cure  our  ills, 
Sweeten  life  with  all  its  cares  j 
Regulate  our  stubborn  wills, 
Save  us  from  surrounding  snares  : 
Though  you  oft  have  heard  in  vain, 
Former  years  in  folly  spent ; 
Grace  invites  you  yet  again, 
Once  more  calls  you  to  repent. 

5  Cali'd  again,  at  length,  beware, 
Hear  the  Saviour's  voice  and  live  ; 
Lest  he  in  his  wrath  should  swear. 
He  no  more  will  warning  give  : 
Pray  that  you  may  hear  and  feel, 
Ere  the  day  of  grace  be  past ; 

Lest  your  hearts  grow  hard  as  steel} 
Or  this  year  should  prove  your  last. 


Hymns  before  annual  Sermons  to  young 
.    People,  on  New- Year's  Evenings. 

VII.  Prayer  for  a  Blessing, 

NOW,  gracious  Lord,  thine  arm  reveaV 
And  make  thy  glory  known  ; 
Now  let  us  all  thy  presence  feel, 

And  soften  hearts  of  stone  ! 
Help  us  to  venture  near  thy  throne, 

And  plead  a  Saviour's  name  ; 
For  all  that  we  can  call  our  own, 
Is  vanity  and  shame. 


160  SEASONS.  Bk.  II 

3  From  all  the  guilt  of  former  sin 

May  mercy  set  us  free  ; 
And  let  the  year  we  now  begin, 
Begin  and  end  with  thee. 

4  Send  down  thy  Spirit  from  above 

That  saints  may  love  thee  more  ; 
And  sinners  now  may  learn  to  love, 
Who  never  lov'd  before. 

3  And  when  before  thee  we  appear, 
In  our  eternal  home, 
May  growing  numbers  worship  theea 
And  praise  thee  in  our  room. 

VIII.  (c)  Another. 

1    13  E STOW,  dear  Lord,  upon  our  youth 
J3  The  gift  of  saving  grace  $ 
And  let  the  seed  of  sacred  truth 
Fall  into  a  fruitful  place. 

2.  Grace  is  a  plant,  whene'er  it  grows 
Of  pure  and  heav'nly  root : 
But  fairest  in  the  youngest  shews, 
And  yields  the  sweetest  fruit. 

3  Ye  careless  ones,  O  hear  betimes 

The  voice  of  sov'reign  love  ! 
Your  youth  is  stainM  with  many  crimes, 
But  mercy  reigns  above. 

4  True,  you  are  young,  but  there^s  a  stone 

Within  the  youngest  breast, 
Or  half  the  crimes  which  you  have  done 
Would  rob  you  of  your  rest. 

5  For  you  the  public  pray'r  is  made, 

Oh  !  join  the  public  pray'r  !    ' 
For  you  the  secret  tear  is  shed, 
O  shed  vourselves  a  tear  ! 


Hy.  9.  SEASONS.  161 

6  We  pray  that  you  may  early  prove 

The  Spirit's  pow'r  to  teach  ; 

You  cannot  be  too  young  to  love 

That  Jesus  whom  we  preach, 

IX.  Another* 

X    VTOWmay  fervent  pray'r  arise 

JJN   Wing'd  with  faith,  and  pierce  the  skies ; 
Fervent  pray'r  shall  bring  us  down 
Gracious  answers  from  the  throne. 

2  Bless,  O  Lord,  the  opening  year, 
To  each  soul  assembled  here  ; 
Clothe  thy  word  with  pow'r  divine, 
Make  us  willing  to  be  thine. 

3  Shepherd  of  thy  blood -bought  sheep  \ 
Teach  the  stony  heart  to  weep  ; 

Let  the  blind  have  eyes  to  see, 
See  themselves,  and  look  on  thee  ! 

4  Let  the  minds  of  all  our  youth 
Feel  the  force  of  sacred  truth  ; 
While  the  Gospel  call  they  hear, 
May  they  learn  to  love  and  fear. 

5  Shew  them  what  their  ways  have  been, 
Shew  them  the  desert  of  sin  ; 

Then  thy  dying  love  reveal, 
This  shall  melt  a  heart  of  steel. 

0  Where  thou  hast  thy  work  begun, 
Give  new  strength  the  race  to  run  ; 
Scatter  darkness,  doubts  and  fears, 
Wipe  away  the  mourner's  tears. 

7  Bless  us  all  both  old  and  young ; 
Call  forth  praise  from  ev'ry  tongue  r 
Let  the -whole  assembly  prove 

All  thy  pow'r,  and  all  thy  love, 
o  2 


162  SEASONS  Bk.  II. 

X.  Casting  the  Gospel  Net. 

1  TITHEN  Peter  thro'  the  tedious  night  (l) 

V  V     Had  often  cast  his  net  in  vain  £ 
Soon  as  the  Lord  appear'd  in  sight 
Ht   gladly  let  it  down  again. 

2  Once  more  the  Gospel  net  we  cast, 
Do  thou,  O  Lord,  the  effort  own  ; 
We  learn  from  disappointments  past 
To  rest  our  hope  on  thee  alone. 

3  Upheld  by  thy  supporting  hand, 
We  enter  on  another  year  ; 

And  now  we  meet  at  thy  command, 
To  seek  thy  gracious  presence  here. 

4<  May  this  be  a  much  favoured  hour, 
To  souls  in  Satan's  bondage  led ; 
O  clothe  thy  word  with  sov'reign  pow'Y 
To  break  the  rocks  and  raise  the  dead  ! 

5  Have  mercy  on  our  numerous  youth, 
Who  young  in  years  are  old  in  sin  ; 
And  by  thy  Spirit,  and  thy  truth, 
Shew  them  the  state  their  souls  are  ip. 

6  Then,  by  a  Saviour's  dying  love 
To  ev'ry  wounded  heart  reveal'd, 
Temptations,  fears,  and  guilt  remove, 
And  be  their  sun,  and  strength,  and  shield, 

7  To  mourners  speak  a  cheering  word, 
On  seeking  souls  vouchsafe  to  shine  $ 
Let  poor  backsliders  be  restor'd, 
And  all  thy  saints  in  praises  join. 

S  O  hear  our  pray'r  and  give  us  hope, 
That  when  thy  voice  shall  call  us  home, 
Thou  still  wilt  raise  a  people  up, 
To  love  and  praise  thee  in  our  room, 

51)  Luke  v.  « 


Hy.  11,  12.         SEASONS.  16; 

XI.  (c)  Pleading'  for  and  with  youth, 

1  Q<  IN  has  undone  our  wretched  race, 
O  But  Jesus  has  restor'd, 

.  And  brought  the  sinner  face  to  face 
With  his  forgiving  Lord. 

2  This  we  repeat  from  year  to  year, 

And  press  upon  our  youth  : 
Lord,  give  them  an  attentive  eai% 
Lord,  save  them  by  thy  truth. 

3  Blessings  upon  the  rising  race  ! 

Make  this  an  happy  hour, 

According  to  thy  richest  grace^ 

And  thine  almighty  pow'r. 

4  We  feel  for  your  unhappy  state, 

(May  you  regard  it  too) 
And  would  awhile  ourselves  forget ; 
To  pour  out  pray'r  for  you. 

5  We  see,  though  you  perceive  it  not3 

The  approaching,  awful  doom ; 
O  tremble  at  the  solemn  thought, 
And  flee  the  wrath  to  come  ! 

6  Dear  Saviour,  let  this  new  born  year. 

Spread  an  alarm  abroad  ; 
And  cry,  in  ev'ry  careless  ear, 
"  Prepare  to  meet  thy  God  ! 

XII.  (c)  Prayer  for  Children, 

\    r^  RACIOUS  Lord,  our  children  see 
\JT  By  thy  mercy  we  are  free  y 
But  shall  these,  alas  !  remain 
Subjects  still  of  Satan's  reign  ? 
Israel's  young  ones,  when  of  old 
Vharaoh  threat'ned  to  withhold  (1)  ) 
Then  thy  messenger  said,  "  No  y 
Let  the  children  also  go." 

(1)  Exod.  x.  V, 


164  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

2  When  the  angel  of  the  Lord 
Drawing  forth  his  dreadful  sword, 
Slew  with  an  avenging  hand, 

All  the  first-born  of  the  land  (1)  : 
Then  thy  people's  doors  he  pass'd, 
Where  the  bloody  sign  was  plac'd  ; 
Hear  us,  now,  upon  our  knees, 
Plead  the  blood  of  Christ  for  these  ! 

3  Lord,  we  tremble,  for  we  know 
How  the  fierce  malicious  foe, 
"Wheeling  round  his  watchful  flight, 
Keeps  them  ever  in  his  sight : 
Spread  thy  pinions,  King  of  kings  ! 
Hide  them  safe  beneath  thy  wings  : 
Lest  the  rav'nous  bird  of  prey 
Stoop,  and  bear  the  brood  away. 

XIII.    The  Shunamite.  (2). 

1  rT^HE  Shunamite  oppress'd  with  grief, 

JL     When  she  had  lost  the  son  she  lov'd 
Went  to  Elisha  for  relief, 
Nor  vain  her  application  prov'd. 

2  He  sent  his  servant  on  before 
To  lay  a  staff  upon  his  head  ,• 
This  he  could  do,  but  do  no  more, 
He  left  him,  as  he  found  him,  dead. 

3  But  when  the  Lord's  almighty  pow'r 
Wrought  with  the  prophet's  pray'r  and  faith. 
The  mother  saw  a  joyful  hour, 

She  saw  her  child  restor'd  from  death. 

£  Thus  like  the  weeping  Shunamite 
For  many,  dead  in  sin  we  grieve  ; 
Now  Lord,  display  thine  arm  of  might, 
Cause  them  to  hear  thy  voice  and  live. 

fl)  Exod.  xii.  1?.  (5)  2  Kings  iy.  ST. 


Hy.  14.  SEASONS.  165 

5  Thy  preachers  bear  the  staff  in  vain, 
Though  at  thine  own  command  we  go  ; 
Lord,  we  have  try'd  and  try'd  again, 
We  find  them  dead,  and  leave  them  so. 

6  Come  then  thyself — to  ev'ry  heart 
The  glory  of  thy  name  make  known  ; 
The  means  are  our  appointed  part, 
The  pow'r  and  grace  are  thine  alone 

XIV.  ELIJAH'S  Prayer  (1). 

1  TT\  OES  it  not  grief  and  wonder  move, 
U    To  think  of  Israel's  shameful  fall  ? 
"Who  needed  miracles  to  prove 
Whether  the  Lord  is  God  or  Baal ! 

2  Methinks  I  see  Elijah  stand, 

His  features  glow  with  love  and  zeal^ 
In  faith  and  pray'r  he  lifts  his  hand, 
And  makes  to  heav'n  his  great  appeal. 

3  "  O  God  !  If  I  thy  servant  am, 
If 'tis  thy  message  fills  my  heart ; 
Now  glorify  thy  holy  name, 

And  show  this  people  who  thou  art  !'?*; 

4  He  spake,  and  lo  !  a  sudden  flame 
Consum'd  the  wood,  the  dust,  the  stone  ; 
The  people  struck,  at  once  proclaim 

*  The  Lord  is  God,  the  Lord  alone." 

5  Like  him  we  mourn  an  awful  day, 
When  more  for  Baal  than  God  appear ; 
Like  him,  believers,  let  us  pray, 

And  may  the  God  of  Israel  hear  ? 

6  Lord,  if  thy  servant  speak  thy  truth, 
If  he  indeed  is  sent  by  thee  ; 
Confirm  the  word  to  all  our  youth 
And  let  them  thy  salvation  see. 

(1)  1  Kings  xviii.; 


166  SEASONS.  Bk.  If. 

7  Now  may  the  Spirit's  holy  fire 

Pierce  ev'ry  heart  that  hears  thy  word  ; 

Consume  each  hurtful  vain  desire, 

And  make  them  know  thou  art  the  Lord. 

XV.  Preaching  to  the  dry  bones,  (l). 

1  "PREACHERS  may  from  Ezekiel's  case, 
JT    Draw  hope  in  this  declining  day  ; 

A  proof,  like  this,  of  sov'reign  grace 
Should  chase  our  unbelief  away. 

2  When  sent  to  preach  to  mould'ring  bones, 
Who  could  have  thought  he  would  succeed  ? 
But  well  he  knew  the  Lord,  from  stones 
Could  raise  up  Abra'm's  chosen  seed. 

h  Can  these  be  made  a  num'rous  host, 
And  such  dry  bones  new  life  receive  ? 
The  prophet  answer'd,  "  Lord  thou  know'st 
They  shall,  if  thou  commandment  give." 

4  Like  him  around  I  cast  mine  eye, 
And  oh  !  what  heaps  of  bones  appear ; 
Like  him  by  Jesus  sent,  I'll  try, 

For  he  can  cause  the  dead  to  hear. 

5  Hear,  ye  dry  bones,  the  Saviour's  word  ! 
He  who  when  dying,  gasp'd  "  Forgive," 
That  gracious  sinner-loving  Lord, 
Says,  "  Look  to  me,  dry  bones,  and  live." 

6  Thou  heav'nly  wind  awake  and  blow, 
In  answer  to  the  pray'r  of  faith  ; 
Now  thine  almighty  influence  show, 
And  fill  dry  bones  with  living  breath* 

7  O  make  them  hear,  and  feel,  and  shake. 
And  at  thy  call,  obedient  move  ; 

The  bonds  of  death  and  Satan  break, 
And  bone  to  bone  unite  in  love. 

(I)  Ezekiel  xxxvii. 


Hy.  16.  SEASONS.  167 

XVI.   The  Rod  of  MOSES, 

1  "Y  XX HEN  Moses  wav'd  his  mystic  rod 

Vt       What  wonders   follow'd  while   he 
spoke  ? 
Firm  as  a  wall  the  waters  stood  (1) 
Or  gush'd  in  rivers  from  the  rock  (2)  ! 

2  At  his  command  the  thunder  roll'd, 
Lightning  and  hail  his  voice  obey'd  (3), 
And  Pharaoh  trembled  to  behold 

His  land  in  desolation  laid. 

3  But  what  could  Moses'  rod  have  done 
Had  he  not  been  divinely  sent  ? 

The  pow'r  was  from  the  Lord  alone, 
And  Moses  but  the  instrument. 

4  O  Lord,  regard  thy  people's  prayers  ! 
Assist  a  worm  to  preach  aright  $ 
And  since  thy  gospel-rod  he  bears, 
Display  thy  wonders  in  our  sight. 

5  Proclaim  the  thunders  of  thy  law, 
Like  lightning  let  thine  arrows  fly, 
That  careless  sinners,  struck  with  awe^ 
For  refuge  may  to  Jesus  cry ! 

6  Make  streams  of  godly  sorrow  flow 
From  rocky  hearts,  unus'd  to  feel ; 
And  let  the  poor  in  spirit  know 

That  thou  art  near,  their  griefs  to  heal. 

7  But  chiefly,  we  would  now  look  up 
To  ask  a  blessing  for  our  youth, 
The  rising  generations  hope, 

That  they  may  know  and  love  the  truth. 

8  Arise,  O  Lord,  afford  a  sign  ! 

Now  shall  our  pray'rs  success  obtain, 
Since  both  the  means  and  pow'r  are  thine? 
How  can  the  rod  be  rais'd  in  vain. 

(1)  Exod.  xiv.  21.  (2)  Numb.  xx.  11.  (3)  Exod.  ix.  23, 


168  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

XVII.  GOD  speaking  from  Mount  Zion* 
1    n^HE  God  who  once  to  Israel  spoke 
A    From  Sinai's  top,  in  fire  and  smoke, 

In  gentler  strains  of  Gospel  grace, 

Invites  us  now  to  seek  his  face. 
-2  He  wears  no  terrors  on  his  brow, 

He  speaks  in  love  from  Zion  now  ; 

It  is  the  voice  of  Jesus'  blood 

Calling  poor  wand'rers  home  to  God. 
■3  The  holy  Moses  quak'd  and  fear'd 

When  Sinai's  thund'ring  law  he  heard  ; 

But  reigning  grace,  with  accents  mild, 

Speaks  to  the  sinner  as  a  child. 

4  Hark  !  how  from  Calvary  it  sounds  ; 
From  the  Redeemer's  bleeding  wounds ; 
"  Pardon  and  grace  I  freely  give, 

Poor  sinner  look  to  me  and  live." 

5  What  other  arguments  can  move 

The  heart  that  slights  a  Saviour's  love  ! 
Yet  till  Almighty  pow'r  constrain, 
This  matchless  love  is  preach'd  in  vain. 

6  O  Saviour,  let  that  pow'r  be  felt, 
And  cause  each  stony  heart  to  melt ! 
Deeply  impress  upon  our  youth 
The  light  and  force  of  Gospel  truth. 

7  With  the  new -year  may  we  begin 
To  live  to  thee,  and  die  to  sin  ; 
To  enter  by  the  narrow  way 
Which  leads  to  everlasting  day. 

8  How  will  they  else  thy  presence  bear, 
Wrhen  as  a  judge  thou  shalt  appear; 
Wrhen  slighted  love  to  wrath  shall  turn 
And  the  whole  earth  like  Sinai  burn  f 


Hy.  18,  SEASONS.  169 

XVIII.  A  prayer  for  power  on  the  means  of 
Grace. 

1  /^v  Thou  !  at  whose  Almighty  word 

\^J    The    glorious    light    from    darkness 

sprung  ! 
Thy  quick'ning  influence  afford, 
And  clothe  with  power  the  preacher's  tongue. 

2  Tho'  'tis  thy  truth  he  hopes  to  speak, 
He  cannot  give  the  hearing  ear  ; 

'Tis  thine,  the  stubborn  heart  to  break, 
And  make  the  careless  sinner  fear, 
o  As  when  of  old,  the  water  flow'd 

Forth  from  the  rock  at  thy  command  (1)  ; 
Moses  in  vain  had  wav'd  his  rod, 
Without  thy  wonder-working  hand. 

4  As  when  the  walls  of  Jericho  (2) 
Down  to  the  earth  at  once  were  cast ; 

It  was  thy  power  that  brought  them  low, 
And  not  the  trumpet's  feeble  blast. 

5  Thus  we  would  in  the  means  be  found, 
And  thus  on  thee  alone,  depend  ; 

To  make  the  Gospel's  joyful  sound 
Effectual  to  the  promis'd  end. 

6  Now  while  we  hear  thy  word  of  grace, 
lie  J  self  and  pride  before  it  fall ; 
And  rocky  hearts  dissolve  apace, 

In  streams  of  sorrow  at  thy  call. 

7  On  all  our  youth  assembled  here 
-The  unction  of  thy  Spirit  pour  ; 

Nor  let  them  lose  another  year, 

Lest  thou  shouldst  strive  and  call  no  more. 

(I)  Numbers  xx.  11.  (2)  Joshua  vi.  20. 

P 


170  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

XIX.    ELIJAH'S  Mantle. 
2  Kings  ii.  11 — 14. 

1  TT*  LI  SUA,  struck  with  grief  and  awe, 

V  a    Cry'd,  u  Ah  !   where  now   is  Israel's 
stay  ?" 
When  he  his  honour'd  master  saw 
Borne  by  a  fiery  car  away. 

2  But  while  he  look'd  a  last  adieu, 
His  mantle,  as  it  fell,  he  caught ; 
The  Spirit  rested  on  him  too, 
And  equal  miracles  he  wrought. 

3  "  Where  is  Elijah's  God,"  he  cry'd, 
And  with  his  mantle  smote  the  flood; 
His  word  controul'd  the  swelling  tide, 
Th'  obedient  waters  upright  stood. 

4  The  wonder-working  Gospel,  thus 
From  hand  to  hand  has  been  convey'd  ; 
We  have  the  mantle  still  with  us, 

But  where,  O  where,  the  Spirit's  aid  ? 

5  When  Peter  first  his  mantle  wav'd  (l) 
How  soon  it  melted  hearts  of  steel ! 
Sinners  by  thousands,  then  were  sav'd, 
But  now  how  few  its  virtues  feel ! 

6  Where  is  Elijah's  God  the  Lord, 
Thine  Israel's  hope,  and  joy,  and  boast  ? 
Reveal  thy  arm,  confirm  thy  word, 
Give  us  another  Pentecost ! 

7  Assist  thy  Messenger  to  speak, 
And  while  he  aims  to  lisp  thy  truth, 
The  bonds  of  sin  and  Satan  break, 
And  pour  thy  blessing  on  our  youth. 

\8  For  them  we  now  approach  thy  throne, 
Teach  them  to  know  and  love  thy  name  ; 

(1)  Acts  ii. 


Ht.  20,  21.         SEASONS.  171 

Then  shall  thy  thankful  people  own 
Elijah's  God  is  still  the  same. 

Hymns  after  Sermons  to  young  people  on  New- 
Years  Evenings  :  suited  to  the  Subject. 

XX.  DAVID's  Charge  to  SOLOMON. 

1  Chron.  xxviii.  9. 

David's  Son,  and  David's  Lord  ! 

From  age  to  age  thou  art  the  same  \ 
Thy  gracious  presence  now  afford, 
And  teach  our  youth  to  know  thy  name. 

2  Thy  people,  Lord,  tho'  oft  distrest, 
Upheld  by  thee,  thus  far  are  come, 
And  now  we  long  to  see  thy  rest 
And  wait  thy  word  to  call  us  home. 

3  Like  David,  when  this  life  shall  end, 
We  trust  in  thee,  sure  peace  to  find  ; 
Like  him  to  thee  we  now  commend 
The  children  we  must  leave  behind. 

4  Ere  long  we  hope  to  be  where  care, 
And  sin,  and  sorrow  never  come  ; 
But  oh,  accept  our  humble  pray'r, 
That  these  may  praise  thee  in  our  room. 

5  Shew  them  how  vile  they  are  by  sin, 
And  wash  them  in  thy  cleansing  blood  ; 
Oh,  make  them  willing  to  be  thine, 
And  be  to  them  a  covenant  God. 

6  Long  may  thy  light  and  truth  remain 
To  bless  this  place  when  we  are  gone  ; 
And  numbers  here  be  born  again, 

To  dwell  for  ever  near  thy  throne. 

XXI.  The  Lord's  call  to  his  Children. 

2  Cor.  vi.   17,  18. 

1    "       ET  us  adore  the  grace  that  seeks 
A-*  To  draw  our  heart  above: !. 


172  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

Attend,  'tis  God  the  Saviour  speaks, 
And  every  word  is  love. 

2  Tho'  fill'd  with  awe,  before  his  throne 

Each  angel  vails  his  face  ;  ~ 
He  claims  a  people  for  his  own 
Amongst  our  sinful  race. 

3  Careless,  awhile,  they  live  in  sin, 

Enslav'd  to  Satan's  pow'r  ; 
But  they  obey  the  call  divine, 

In  his  appointed  hour. 
1    "  Come  forth,  he  says,  no  more  pursue 

The  path  that  leads  to  death  ; 
Look  up,  a  bleeding  Saviour  view, 

Look,  and  be  sav'd  by  faith. 
5  "  My  sons  and  daughters  you  shall  be, 

Thro'  the  atoning  blood  ; 
And  you  shall  claim  and  find  in  me, 

A  Father  and  a  God." 
6  Lord,  speak  these  words  to  every  heart, 

By  thine  all  powerful  voice  ; 
That  we  may  now  from  sin  depart, 

And  make  thy  love  our  choice. 
7  If  now  we  learn  to  seek  thy  face, 

By  Christ  the  living  way  y 
We'll  praise  thee  for  this  hour  of  grace, 

Thro'  an  eternal  day. 

XXII.  The  Prayer  of  J  ABE  Z. 
1  Chron.  iv.  9,  10. 

1  TESUS,  who  bought  us  with  his  blood, 
«|       And  makes  our  souls  his  care  : 
AVas  known  of  old  as  Israel's  God, 

And  answei'd  Jabez's  prayeiv 

2  Jahez  !  a  child  of  gritf !  the  name 

Befits  poor  sinners  well  ; 
"For  Jesus  bore  tht  cross  and  shame* 
To  save  our  souls  from  helU 


Hy.  23.-  SEASON'S.  173 

3  Teach  us,  O  Lord,  like  him  to  plead 
For  mercies  from  above  : 
O  come  and  bless  our  souls  indeed, 

With  light,  and  joy,  and  love. 
4  The  gospel's  promis'd  land  is  wide, 
We  fain  would  enter  in  ; 
B  Rut  we  are  press'd  on  every  side, 
With  unbelief  and  sin. 

5  Arise,  O  Lord,  enlarge  our  coast. 

Let  us  possess  the  whole, 
That  Satan  may  no  longer  boast, 
He  can  thy  work  controul. 

6  O,  may  thy  hand  be  with  us  stilly 

Our  Guide  and  Guardian  be  ; 
To  keep  us  safe  from  every  ill, 
Till  death  shall  set  us  free. 

7  Help  us  on  thee  to  cast  our  care, 

And  on  thy  word  to  rest ; 
That  Israel's  God,  who  heareth  pray'r  -; 
Will  grant  us  our  request. 

XXIII.  Waiting  at   Wisdom's.  Gates, 
Prov  viii.  34,  35. 

1  TT*  NSNAR'D  too  long  my  heart  has  been 

*4    In  folly's  hurtful  ways  ', 
Ah,  may  I  now,  at  length,  begin 
To  hear  what  wisdom  says  I 

2  'Tis  Jesus,  from  the  mercy-seat. 

Invites  me  to  his  rest ; 
He  calls  poor  sinners  to  his  feet, 
To  make  them  truly  blest. 

3  Approach  my  soul  to  wisdom's  gate 
While  it  is  call'd  to-day  ; 

No  one  that  watches  there  and  waits, 
Shall  e'er  be  turn'd  away. 

4  He  will  not  let  me  seek  in  vain, 
For  all  who  trust  his  word, 

p  2 


2  74  SEASONS.  Vk.  II. 

Shall  everlasting  life  obtain, 
And  favour  from  the  Lord. 

5  Lord,  I  have  hated  thee  too  long, 

And  dar'd  thee  to  thy  face  ; 
I've  done  my  soul  exceeding  wrong 
In  slighting  all  thy  grace. 

6  Now  I  would  break  my  league  with  death 

And  live  to  thee  alone  ; 
Oh  let  thy  Spirit's  seal  of  faith. 
Secure  me  for  thine  own. 

7  Let  all  the  saints  assembled  here, 

Yea,  let  all  heav'n  rejoice ; 
That  I  begin  with  this  new  year, 
To  make  the  Lord  my  choice. 

XXIV.  Asking  the  way  to  Ziony  Jer.  1.  5>- 

1  rylON,  the  city  of  our  God, 
&La   How  glorious  is  the  place  ! 
The  Saviour  there  has  his  abode  | 

And  sinners  see  his  face  ! 

2  Firm,  against  ev'ry  adverse  shock 

Its  mighty  bulwarks  prove  ; 
JTis  built  upon  the  living  Rock, 
And  wall'd  around  with  love. 

3  There  all  the  fruits  of  glory  grow> 

And  joys  that  never  die  ; 
And  streams  of  grace  and  knowledge  flow 
The  soul  to  satisfy. 

4  Come,  set  your  faces  Zion-ward 

The  sacred  road  enquire  ; 
And  let  an  union  with  the  Lord 

Be  henceforth  your  desire. 
4  The  Gospel  shines  to  give  you  sight, 

No  longer,  then  delay  ; 
The  Spirit  waits  to  guide  your  right, 

And  Jesus  is  the  wav. 


Hy.  25.  SEASONS.  17$ 

5   O  Lord,  regard  thy  people's  pray'r, 
Thy  promise  now  fulfil  ; 
And  young  and  old  by  grace  prepare 
To  dwell  on  Zion's  hill* 

XXY.  We  -were  P EAR AO ITS  Bondmen. 

Deut.  vi.  20—23. 

i    T3  ENEATK  the  tyrant  Satan's  yoke 
JO    Our  souls  were  long  opprest  ; 
Till  grace  our  galling  fetters  broke, 
And  gave  the  weary  rest. 
3  Jesus,  in  that  important  hour, 

His  mighty  arm  made  known  ; 
He  ransom'd  us  by  price  and  pow'r, 
And  claim'd  us  for  his  own. 

3  Now  freed  from  bondage,  sin  and  deaths 

We  walk  in  wisdom's  ways  ; 
And  wish  to  spend  our  ev'ry  breath, 
In  wonder  love  and  praise. 

4  Ere  long,  we  hope  with  him  to  dwell, 

In  yonder  world  above  ; 
And  now  we  only  live  to  tell 
The  riches  of  his  love. 

5  O  might  we,  ere  we  hence  remove, 

Prevail  upon  our  youth 
To  seek  that  they  may  likewise  prove, 
His  mercy  and  his  truth. 

6  Like  Simeon,  we  shall  gladly  go  (1), 

When  Jesus  calls  us  home  ; 
If  they  are  left  a  seed  below, 
To  serve  him  in  our  room. 

7  Lord,  hear  our  pray'r,  indulge  our  hope, 

On  these  thy  Spirit  pour ; 
That  they  may  take  our  story  up, 
When  we  can  speak  no  more. 

(1)  Luke  ii.  29, 


176  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

XXVI.  Travailing  in  Birth  for  Souls, 
Gal  iv.  19. 

1  \~\ T HAT  contradictions  meet 

V  V     In  ministers  employ  J 

It  is  a  bitter  sweet, 

A  sorrow  full  of  joy  ; 
No  other  post  affords  a  place 
For  equal  honour,  or  disgrace  ! 

2  Who  can  describe  the  pain 
Which  faithful  preachers  feel ; 
Constraint!  to  speak  in  vain, 
To  hearts  as  hard  as  steel !. 

Or  who  can  tell  the  pleasures  felt, 
When  stubborn  hearts  begin  to  melt, 

3  The  Saviour's  dying  love, 
The  soul's  amazing  worth  ! 
Their  utmost  efforts  move, 
And  draw  their  bowels  forth  ; 

They  pray  and  strive,  their  rest  departs, 
5Till  Christ  be  form'd  in  sinners'  hearts. 

4  If  some  small  hope  appear, 
They  still  are  not  content  J 
But,  with  a  jealous  fear, 
They  watch  for  the  event  : 

Too  oft  they  find  their  hopes  deceiv'd, 
Then  how  their  inmost  souls  are  griev'd  f 

5  But  when  their  pains  succeed, 
And  from  the  tender  blade, 
The  rip'ning  ears  proceed, 
Their  toils  are  overpaid. 

No  harvest  joy  can  equal  theirs, 
To  find  the  fruit  of  all  their  cares. 

6  On  what  has  now  been  sown, 
Thy  blessing  Lord,  bestow  ; 
The  power  is  thine  alone, 
To  make  it  spring  and  grow  : 


Hy.  27.  SEASONS.  177 

Do  thou  the  gracious  harvest  raise, 
And  thou  alone  shalt  have  the  praise. 

XXVII.  We  are  Ambassadors  for  CHRIST. 
2  Cor.  v.  20. 

1  ^HY  message,  by  the  preacher  seal, 

X     And  let  thy  pow'r  be  known; 
That  every  sinner  here  may  feel 
The  word  is  not  his  own. 

2  Amongst  the  foremost  of  the  throng 

Who  dare  thee  to  thy  face, 
He  in  rebellion  stood  too  long, 
And  fought  against  thy  grace. 

3  But  grace  prevail'd,  he  mercy  found, 

And  now  by  thee  is  sent, 
To  tell  his  fellow  rebels  round, 
And  call  them  to  repent. 

4  In  Jesus,  God  is  reconcil'd, 

The  worst  may  be  forgiv'n; 
Come,  and  he'll  own  you  as  a  child, 

And  make  you  heirs  of  heav'n. 
$  Oh,  may  the  word  of  gospel  truth, 

Your  chief  desire  engage  ; 
And  Jesus  be  your  guide  in  youth, 

Your  joy  in  hoary  age. 
(5  Perhaps  the  year,  that's  now  begun, 

May  prove  to  some  their  last  ; 
The  sands  of  life  may  soon  be  run, 

The  clay  of  grace  be  past. 
7  Think,  if  you  slight  this  embassy. 

And  will  not  warning  take  ! 
When  Jesus  in  the  clouds  you  see3 

What  answer  will  vou  make  ? 


178  SEASONS.  Bk.  11. 

XXVIII.  Paul's  farewell  Charge. 
-  Acts.  xx.  26,  27. 

1  1ITHEN   Paul  was   parted  from  his 

VV  friends 

It  was  a  weeping  day  ; 
But  Jesus  made  them  all  amends, 
And  wip'd  their  tears  away. 

2  Ere  long  they  met  again  with  joy, 

(Secure  no  more  to  part) 
Where  praises  every  tongue  employ, 
And  pleasure  fills  each  heart. 

3  Thus  all  the  preachers  of  his  grace 

Their  children  soon  shall  meet ; 
Together  see  their  Saviour's  face, 
And  worship  at  his  feet. 

4  But  they  who  heard  the  word  in  vain, 

Tho'  oft  and  plainly  warn'd  ; 
Will  tremble,  when  they  meet  again, 

The  ministers  they  scorn'd. 
.5  On  your  own  heads  your  blood  will  fall 

If  any  perish  here  ; 
The  preachers  who  have  told  you  allf 

Shall  stand  approv'd  and  clear. 
6  Yet,  Lord,  to  save  themselves  alone, 

Is  not  their  utmost  view  ; 
Oh  !  hear  their  pray'r,  thy  message  own, 

And  save  their  hearers  too. 

XXIX.  How  shall  I  put  thee  among  the  Children? 

Jer.  iii.  19. 

1  A    LAS  !  by  nature  how  depraved, 
JLjl    How  prone  to  every  ill ! 

Our  lives  to  Satan  how  enslav'd, 
How  obstinate  our  will ! 

2  And  can  such  sinners  be  restored, 

Such  rebels  reconcil'd  ? 


Hy.  30.  SEASONS.  179 

Can  grace  itself  the  means  afford 
To  make  a  foe  a  child  ? 

3  Yes,  grace  has  found  the  wond'rous  means 

Which  shall  effectual  prove  ; 
To  cleanse  us  from  our  countless  sins, 
And  teach  our  hearts  to  love. 

4  Jesus  for  sinners  undertakes, 

And  dy'd  that  we  may  live  ; 

His  blood  a  full  atonement  makes, 

And  cries  aloud,  "  Forgive." 

5  Yet  one  thing  more  must  grace  provide 

To  bring  us  home  to  God  ; 
Or  we  shall  slight  the  Lord,  who  dy'd, 
And  trample  on  his  blood. 

6  The  holy  Spirit  must  reveal 

The  Saviour's  work  and  worth  : 
Then  the  hard  heart  begins  to  feel 
A  new  and  heav'nly  birth. 

7  Thus  bought  with  blood,  and  born  again. 

Redeemed  and  sav'd  by-  grace  ; 
Rebels,  in  God's  own  house  obtain 
A  son's  and  daughter's  place. 

XXX.  Winter.  (1) 

1  Q*  EE,  how  rude  winter's  icy  hand, 

k3    Has  stripp'd  the  trees  and  seal'd  the 

ground  ! 
But  Spring  shall  soon  his  rage  withstand, 
And  spreads  new  beauties  all  around. 

2  My  soul  a  sharper  winter  mourns  \ 
Barren  and  fruitless  I  remain  : 
When  will  the  gentle  spring  return , 
And  bid  my  graces  grow  again  f 

(l)BookIII.Hvmn31, 


180  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

3  Jesus,  my  glorious  Sun,  arise  ! 
'Tis  his  the  frozen  heart  to  move  ; 

Oh  !  hush  these  storms  and  clear  my  skies, 
And  let  me  feel  thy  vital  love  ! 

4  Dear  Lord,  regard  my  feeble  cry, 
I  faint  and  droop  till  thou  appear  ; 
Wilt  thou  permit  thy  plant  to  die  ? 
Must  it  be  winter  all  the  year  ? 

5  Be  still,  my  soul,  and  wait  this  hour, 
With  humble  pray'r  and  patient  faith  $ 
Till  he  reveals  his  gracious  pow'r, 
Repose  on  what  his  promise  saith. 

6  He,  by  whose  all  commanding  word  (l), 
Seasons  their  changing  course  maintain  ; 
In  ev'ry  change  a  pledge  affords 

That  none  shall  seek  his  face  in  vain. 

XXXI.    Waiting  for  Spring. 

1  npHO'  cloudy   skies,  and  northern  blasts 

JL     Retard  the  gentle  spring  awhile  ; 
The  sun  will  conqueror  prove  at  last 
And  nature  wear  a  vernal  smile. 

2  The  promise  which  from  age  to  age, 
Has  brought  the  changing  seasons  round  ; 
Again  shall  calm  the  winter's  rage, 
Perfume  the  air,  and  paint  the  ground. 

3  The  virtue  of  that  first  command, 
I  know  still  does  and  will  prevail  ; 
That  while  the  earth  itself  shall  stand, 
The  spring  and  summer  shall  not  fail. 

4  Such  chnages  are  for  us  decreed  ; 
Believers  have  their  winter  too; 
But  spring  shall  certainly  succeed, 
And  all  their  former  life  renew. 

(1)  Genesis  via.  22. 


Hy.  3&  SEASONS.  181 

5  Winter  and  spring  have  each  their  use, 
And  each,  in  turn,  his  people  know  ; 
One  kills  the  weeds  their  hearts  produce, 
The  other  makes  their  graces  grow. 

6  Though  like  dead  trees  awhile  they  seem, 
Yet  having  life  within  their  root, 

The  welcome  spring's  reviving  beam 
Draws  forth  their  blossoms,  leaves,  and  fruit* 

7  But  if  the  tree  indeed  be  dead, 

It  feels  no  change,  tho'  spring  return, 
Its  leafless,  naked,  barren  head, 
Proclaims  it  only  fit  to  burn. 
S  Dear  Lord,  afford  our  souls  a  spring, 
Thou  know'st  our  winter  has  been  long ; 
Shine  forth,  and  warm  our  hearts  to  sing, 
And  thy  rich  grace  shall  be  our  song. 

XXXIL  Spring. 

1  T>  LEAK  winter  is  subdu'd  at  length, 
JD   And  forc'd  to  yield  the  day ; 
The  sun  has  wasted  all  his  strength, 

And  driven  him  away. 

2  And  now  long  wish'd  for  spring  is  come, 

How  alter'd  is  the  scene  ! 
The  trees  and  shrubs  are  drest  in  bloom, 
The  earth  array'd  in  green. 

3  Where'er  we  tread,  beneath  our  feet     - 

The  clustering  flowers  spring, 
The  artful  birds  in  concert  sweet, 
Invite  our  hearts  to  sing. 

4  But  ah!  in  vain  I  strive  to  join, 

Oppress'd  with  sin  and  doubt ; 
I  feel  'tis  winter  still,  within, 
Though  all  is  spring  without. 

5  Oh  !  would  my  Saviour  from  on  high, 

Break  thro'  these  clouds  and  shine  ! 


182  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

No  creature  then  more  blest  than  I, 
No  song  more  loud  than  mine. 

6  Till  then — no  softly  warbling  thrush, 

Nor  cowslip's  sweet  perfume  ; 
Nor  beauties  of  each  painted  bush, 
Can  dissipate  my  gloom. 

7  To  Adam,  soon  as  he  transgress'd, 

Thus  Eden  bloom'd  in  vain  ; 

Not  paradise  could  give  him  rest, 

Or  soothe  his  heart-felt  pain. 

8  Yet  here  an  emblem  I  perceive 

Of  what  the  Lord  can  do : 
Dear  Saviour,  help  me  to  believe, 
That  I  may  flourish  too. 

9  Thy  word  can  soon  my  hopes  revive, 

Can  overcome  my  foes  : 
And  make  my  languid  graces  thrive 
And  blossom  like  the  rose. 

XXXIII.  Another. 

i    T}  LEASING  spring  again  is  here  ! 

JL      Trees  and  fields  in  bloom  appear! 

Hark  !  the  birds,  with  artless  lays, 

"Warble  their  Creater's  praise  ! 

Where,  in  winter,  all  was  snow, 

Now  the  flow'rs  in  clusters  grow. 

And  the  corn,  in  green  array, 

Promises  a  harvest-day. 
2  What  a  change  hae  taken  place  I 

Emblem  of  the  spring  of  grace  ; 

How  the  soul-,  in  winter,  mourns 

Till  the  Lord,  the  sun,  returns  ? 

Till  the  Spirit's  gentle  rain, 

Bids  the  heart  revive  again  ; 

Then  the  stone  is  turn'd  to  flesh, 

And  each  grace  springs  up  afresh. 


Hy.  34.  SEASONS.  18: 

3  Lord,  afford  a  spring  to  me  I 

Let  me  feel  like  what  I  see  ; 

Ah  !  my  winter  has  been  long, 

Chill'd  my  hopes,  and  stopp'd  my  song  ? 

Winter  threat'ned  to  destroy 

Faith  and  love,  and  ev'ry  joy  ; 

If  thy  life  was  in  the  root, 

Still  I  could  not  yield  thee  fruit. ' 
4>  Speak,  and  by  thy  gracious  voice 

Make  my  drooping  soul  rejoice  ', 

O  beloved  Saviour,  haste, 

Tell  me  all  the  storms  are  past  : 

On  thy  garden  deign  to  smile, 

Raise  the  plants  enrich  the  soil  ; 

Soon  thy  presence  will  restore 

Life,  to  what  seem'd  dead  before. 
3  Lord,  I  long  to  be  at  home, 

Where  these  changes  never  come  ! 

Where  the  saints  no  winter  fear, 

Where'tis  spring  throughout  the  year: 

How  unlike  this  state  below ! 

There  the  flow'rs  unwith'ring  blow  I 

There  no  chilling  blasts  annoy, 

All  is  love,  and  bloom,  and  joy. 

XXXIY.  Summer  Storms.  (1) 

1   HpHO'  the  morn  may  be  serene, 
A     Not  a  threat'ning  cloud  be  seen  ; 
Who  can  undertake  to  say 
'Twill be  pleasant  all  the  day? 
Tempests  suddenly  may  rise, 
Darkness  overspread  the  skies  ! 
Lightnings  flash  and  thunders  roar5 
Ere  a  short-liv'd  day  be  o'er. 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  6& 


184  SEASONS.  Bk.  IT. 

2  Often  thus,  the  child  of  grace, 
Enters  on  his  Christian  race  ; 
Guilt  raid  fear  have  overborne, 
'Tis  with  him  a  summer's  morn  ; 
"While  his  new-felt  joys  abound, 
All  things  seem  to  smile  around  ; 
And  he  hopes  it  will  be  fair, 

All  the  day  and  all  the  year. 

3  Should  we  warn  him  of  a  change, 
He  would  think  the  caution  strange  ; 
He  no  change  or  trouble  fears, 

Till  the  gath'ring  storm  appears  (2)  : 
Till  dark  clouds  his  sun  conceal, 
Till  temptation's  pow'r  he  feel  ; 
Then  he  trembles  and  looks  pale, 
All  his  hopes  and  courage  fail. 
4*  But  the  wonder-working  Lord, 
Sooths  the  tempest  by  his  word  ; 
Stills  the  thunder,  stops  the  rain, 
And  his  sun  breaks  forth  again  : 
Soon  the  cloud  again  returns, 
Now  he  joys,  and  now  he  mourns  : 
Oft  his  sky  is  overcast, 
Ere  the  day  of  life  be  past. 

5  Try'd  believers  too  can  say, 
In  the  course  of  one  short  d?y, 
Tho'  the  morning  has  been  fair, 
1'rov'd  a  golden  hour  of  pray'r  ; 
Sin  and  Satan,  long  ere  night, 
Have  their  comforts  put  to  flight ; 
Ah  !  what  heart-felt  peace  and  joy- 
Unexpected  storms  destroy. 

6  Dearest  Saviour,  call  us  soon 
To  thine  high  eternal  noon  ; 
Never  there  shall  tempest  rise 
To  conceal  thee  from  our  eyes ; 

(2)  Book  I.  Hymn  44. 


By.  35,  3ft         SEASON'S,  fss 

Satan  shall  no  more  deceive, 
We  no  more~thy  Spirit  grieve  ; 
But  thro'  cloudless,  endless  days, 
Sound  to  golden  harps,  thy  praise. 

XXXY.  Hay -Time. 

1  ^HE  grass  and  flow'rs.  which  clothe  ths 

X  field, 

And  look  so  green  and  gay  ; 
Touch'd  by  the  scy.the,  defenceless  yield3 
And  fall,  and  fade  away, 

2  Fit  emblem  of  our  mortal  state  ! 

Thus  in  the  scripture  glass, 
The  young,  the  strong,  the  wise,  the  greafe 
May  see  themselves  but  grass  (l). 

3  Ah  !  trust  not  to  )Tour  fleeting  breathy 

Nor  call  your  time  your  own  ; 
Around  yon  see  the  scythe  of  death? 
Is  mowing  thousands  down. 

5  And  you,  who  hitherto  are  spar'd, 

Must  shortly  yield  your  lives  ; 
Your  wisdom  is  to  be  prepared 
Before  the  stroke  arrives. 
3  The  grass,  when  dead,  revives  no  more' 
You  die  to  live  again  ; 
But  Oh  !  if  death  should  prove  the  door 
To  everlasting  pain. 

6  Lord  help  us  to  obey  thy  call, 

That  from  our  sins  set  free  ;  \ 
When,  like  grass  out  bodies  fall, 
Our  souls  may  spring  to  thee*     ■ 


s 


XXXVI.  Harvest,, 

EE  !  the  corn  again  in  ear  I 
How  the  fields  and  vallies  smile  1 
(1)  Isaiah,  xi.  7. 


186  SEASONS.  Bk.  lit 

Harvest  now  is  drawing  near, 

To  repay  the  farmer's  toil : 

Gracious  Lord,  secure  the  crop, 

Satisfy  the  poor  with  food  ; 

In  thy  mercy  is  our  hope, 

We  have  sinn'd  but  thou  art  good. 
2  AYhile  I  view  the  plenteous  grain 

As  it  ripens  on  the  stalk  ; 

May  I  not  instruction  gain, 

Helpful  to  my  daily  walk  ? 

All  this  plenty  of  the  field 

Was  produc'd  from  foreign  seeds  % 

For  the  earth  itself  would  yield 

Only  crops  of  useless  weeds. 
.3  Tho'  when  newly  sown,  it  lay 

Hid  awhile  beneath  the  ground 

(Some  might  think  it  thrown  away) 

Now  a  large  increase  is  found  : 

Tho'  conccal'd  it  was  not  lost, 
.  Tho*  it  dy'd  it  lives  again  ; 

Eastern  storms,  and  nipping  frost* 

Have  oppos'd  its  growth  in  vain. 
t  Let  the  praise  be  all  the  Lord's, 

As  the  benefit  is  ours  ! 

He  in  season  still  affords 

Kindly  heat,  and  gentle  show'rs  : 

By  his  care  the  produce  thrives, 

Waving  o'er  the  furrow'd  lands  ; 

And  when  harvest-time  arrives, 

Ready  for  the  reaper  stands. 
5  Thus  in  barren  hearts  he  sows 

Precious  seeds  of  heavenly  joy  (l)  ; 

Sin,  and  hell,  in  vain  oppose, 

None  can  grace's  crop  destroy  : 

Threaten'd  oft,  though  still  k  blooms. 

After  many  changes  past, 

(-1)  Hosea,  xiv.  7.    Mark,  iv.  26— V.V 


Hy.  37,  38.  SEASONS.  is? 

Death,  the  reaper,  when  he  comes, 
Finds  it  fully  ripe  at  last. 

CHRISTMAS. 

XXXVII.  Praise  for  the  Incarnation-* 

1  QJ  "WEETER  sounds  than  music  knows 
O    Charm  me  in  Emmanuel's  name  $ 
All  her  hopes  my  spirit  owes 

To  his  birth,  and  cross,  and  shame* 

2  When  he  came  the  angels  sung, 

"  Glory  be  to  God  on  high  ;" 
Lord,  unloose  my  stamm'ring  tongue^ 
Who  shall  louder  sing  than  I  ? 

3  Did  the  Lord  a  man  become, 

That  he  might  the  law  fulfil, 
Bleed  and  suffer  in  my  room, 

And  canst  thou,  my  tongue,  be  still  ? 

4  No,  1  must  my  praises  bring, 

Tho''  they  worthless  are  and  weak  ; 
For  would  I  refuse  to  sing, 

Sure  the  very  stones  would  speak. 

5  O  my  Saviour,  Shield,  and  Sun, 

Shepherd,  Brother,  Husband,  Frien4s 
Ev'ry  precious  name  in  one, 
I  will  love  thee  without  end, 

XXXVIII.  (c)  JEHOVAH- JESUS. 

h   1\/|"  Y  song  shall  bless  the  Lord  of  all, 
-i-VX   My  praise  shall  climb  to  his  abode  f 
Thee,  Saviour,  by  that  name  I  call, 
The  great  Supreme,  the  mighty  God, 

2  Without  beginning  or  decline, 
Object  of  faith,  and  not  of  sense  ; 
Eternal  ages  saw  him  shine, 
He  shines,  eternal  ages  henc*. 


188  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

3  As  much  when  in  the  manger  laid, 
Almighty  ruler  of  the  sky  ; 

As  when  the  i  ix  day's  work  he  made, 
Fill'd  all  the  morning- stars  with  joy. 

4  Of  all  the  crowns  Jehovah  bears, 
Salvation  is  his  dearest  claim  ; 

That  gracious  sound  well  pieas'd  he  hears. 
And  owns  Emmanual  for  his  name. 

5  A  cheerful  confidence  I  feel. 

My  well  plac'd  hopes  with  joy  I  see: 
My  bosom  glows  with  heavenly  zeal 
To  worship  him  who  dy'd  for  me. 

6  As  man,  he  pities  my  complaint, 
Hispow'rand  truth  are  all  divine; 
He  will  not  fail,  he  cannot  faint. 
Salvation's  sure,  and  must  be  mine. 

XXXIX.     Man  honoured  above  Angels, 

\    VTOW     let    us    join    with    hearts    ane 
.iAl  tongues, 

And  emulate  the  angels'  songs  ; 
Y<-a,  sinners  may  address  their  King, 
In  songs  that  angels  cannot  sing. 

2  They  praise  the  Lamb  who  once  was  slain. 
But  we  can  add  a  higher  strain  (i)  : 

Not  only  say,  "  He  suffered  thus," 
But  that  "  he  suffered  all  for  us." 

3  When  angels  by  transgression  fell, 
Justice  connn'd  them  all  to  hell ; 
But  mercy  form'd  a  wondrous  plan, 
To  save  and  honour  fallen  man. 

4  Jesus  who  pass'd  the  angels  by  (2) 
Assum'd  our  flesh  to  bleed  and  die  : 
And  still  he  makes  it  his  abode, 

As  man  he  fills  the  throne  of  God. 

flj  Rev,"^  (2)  Keb,  ii.  16. 


Hy.  40.  SEASONS.  189 

5  Our  next  of  kin,  our  brother  now, 
Is  he  to  whom  the  angels  bow  ; 
They  join  with  us  to  praise  his  name, 
But  we  the  nearest  int'rest  claim. 

6  Out  ah  !  how  faint  our  praises  rise  ! 
Sure,  'tis  the  wonder  of  the  skies  ; 
That  we  who  share  his  richest  love, 
So  cold  and  unconcern'd  should  prove. 

5  O  glorious  hour,  it  comes  with  speed, 
When  we  from  sin  and  darkness  freed, 
Shall  see  the  God  who  dy'd  for  man, 
And  praise  him  more  than  angels  can  (3). 

XL.  Saturday  Evening.  * 

1    QAFELY  thro'  another  week 

O    God  has  brought  us  on  our  way  : 
Let  us  now  a  blessing  seek, 

On  the  approaching  sabbath-day  : 
Day  of  all  the  week  the  best  ; 
Emblem  of  Eternal  rest. 
3  Mercies  multiply'd  each  hour, 

Thro'  the  week  our  praise  demand  } 
Guarded  by  Almighty  pow'r, 
Fed  and  guided  by  his  hand  ; 
Tho'  ungrateful  we  have  been, 
Only  made  returns  of  sin. 

3  "While  we  pray  for  pard'ning  grace, 

Thro'  the  dear  Redeemer's  name  j 
Shew  thy  reconciled  face, 

Shine  away  our  sin  and  shame  : 
From  our  worldly  care  set  free, 
May  we  rest  this  night  with  thee. 

4  When  the  morn  shall  bid  us  rise, 

May  we  feel  thy  presence  near  J 

£3)  Book  III.  Hymn  88. 


190  SEASONS.  Bk.  II. 

May  thy  glory  meet  our  eyes, 
When  we  in  thy  house  appear  ! 
There  afford  us,  Lord,  a  taste, 
Of  our  everlasting  feast. 
5  May  the  gospel's  joyful  sound 

Conquer  sinners,  comfort  saints  , 
Make  the  fruits  of  grace  abound, 
Bring  relief  for  all  complaints. 
Thus  may  all  our  sabbaths  prove 
Till  we  join  the  church  above! 

THE  CLOSE  OF  THE  YEAR. 

XLI.  EBENEZER.   (l). 

1  ^T^HE  Lord,  our  salvation  and  light, 

A    The  guide  and  the  strength  of  our  days  : 
Has  brought  us  together  to-night, 
A  new  Ebenezer  to  raise  ; 
The  year  we  have  now  passed  thro' 
His  goodness  with  blessings  has  crown'd 
Each  morning  his  mercies  were  new, 
Then  let  our  thanksgiving  abound. 

2  Encompass'd  with  dangers  and  snares, 
Temptations,  and  fears,  and  complaints  ; 
His  ear  he  inclin'd  to  our  pray'rs, 

His  hand  open'd  wide  to  our  wants  : 
We  never  besought  him  in  vain, 
When  burden'd  with  sorrow  or  sin, 
He  help'd  us  again  and  again, 
Or  where  before  now  had  we  been  ? 

3  His  gospel  throughout  the  long  year, 
From  sabbath  to  sabbath  he  gave  ; 
How  oft  has  he  met  with  us  here 
And  shewn  himself  mighty  to  save  ? 
His  candlestick  has  been  remov'd 
From  churches  once  privileged  thus  i) 

(1)  1  Sara.  vii.  1& 


Hy.  42.  SEASONS.  131 

But  tho'  we  unworthy  have  prov'd 
It  still  is  continu'd  to  us. 

4  For  so  many  mercies  receiv'd, 
Aks !  what  returns  have  we  made  r 
His  Spirit  we  often  have  griev'd, 
Ana  evil  for  good  have  repaid  ; 
How  well  it  becomes  us  to  cry, 

"  Oh,  who  is  a  God  like  to  thee  ? 

"Who  passeth  iniquities  by, 

And  plungest  them  deep  in  the  sea  !" 

5  To  Jesus  who  sits  on  the  throne, 
Our  best  hallelujah's  we  bring; 
To  thee  it  is  owing  alone, 

That  we  are  permitted  to  sing  : 
Assist  us,  we  pray,  to  lament 
The  sins  of  the  year  that  is  past ; 
And  grant  that  the  next  may  be  spent 
Far  more  to  thy  praise  than  the  last. 

XLII.  Another. 

1  T    ET  hearts  and  tongues  unite 
JLj   And  loud  thanksgivings  raise  j 
'Tis  duty,  mingled  with  delight, 

To  sing  the  Saviour's  praise. 

2  To  him  we  owe  our  breath, 

He  took  us  from  the  womb, 
"Which  else  had  shut  us  up  in  death, 
And  prov'd  an  early  tomb. 

3  When  on  the  breast  we  hung 

Our  help  was  in  the  Lord  ; 
'Twas  he  first  taught  our  infant  tongue 
To  form  the  lisping  word. 

4  When  in  our  blood  we  lay 

He  would  not  let  us  die, 
Because  his  love  had  fix'd  a  day 
To  bring  salvation  nigh. 


192  SEASONS.  Bk.  n. 

5  In  childhood  and  in  youth 

His  eve  was  on  us  still ; 
Tho'  strangers  to  his  love  and  truth, 
And  prone  to  cross  his  will. 

6  And  since  his  name  we  knew, 

How  gracious  has  he  been  : 

What  dangers  has  he  led  us  thro', 

What  mercies  have  we  seen? 

7  Now  thro'  another  year 

Supported  by  his  care  ; 
We  raise  our  Ebenezer  here, 

fct  The  Lord  has  help'd  thus  far.*' 

8  Our  lot  in  future  years, 
Unable  to  foresee  ; 

He  kindly  to  prevent  our  fears, 
Says,  "  Leave  it  all  to  me." 

9  Yea,  Lord,  we  wish  to  cast 
Our  cares  upon  thy  breast ! 

Help  us  to  praise  thee  for  the  past, 
And  trust  thee  for  the  rest  ? 


II.  ORDINANCES. 
XLIII.     On  opening  a  place  for  social  prayer* 

1  fA  LORD,  our  languid  souls  inspire, 

v^J  For  here,  we  trust  thou  art ! 

Send  down  a  coal  of  heav'nly  fire, 

To  warm  each  waiting  heart. 

2  Dear  Shepherd  of  thy  people,  here, 

Thy  presence  now  display  ; 
As  thou  hast  given  a  place  for  pray'r, 
So  give  us  hearts  to  pray. 

3  Shew  us  some  token  of  thy  love, 

Our  fainting  hope  to  raise  ; 


i 


Ky.  44,  SEASONS.  19, 

And  pour  thy  blessing  from  above, 
That  we  may  render  praise. 

4  Within  these  walls  let  holy  praise, 

And  love  and  concord  dwell ; 
Here  give  the  troubled  conscience  ease. 
The  wounded  spirit  heal. 

5  The  feeling  heart,  the  melting  eye, 

The  humble  mind  bestow ; 

And  shine  upon  us  from  on  high, 

To  make  our  graces  grow  ! 

6  May  we  in  faith  receive  thy  word. 

In  faith  present  our  pray'rs  ; 
And  in  the  presence  of  our  Lord, 
Unbosom  all  our  cares, 

7  And  may  the  Gospel's  joyful  sound 

Enforc'd  by  mighty  grace, 

Awaken  many  sinners  round, 

To  come  and  fill  the  place. 

XLIV.    (c)     Another. 

1  TESTIS,  wherever  thy  people  meet, 
J    There  they  behold  thy  mercy-seat  | 
Where'er  they  seek  thee  thou  art  found, 
And  ev^ry  place  is  hallowed  ground. 

2  For  thou,  within  no  walls  confin'd, 
Inhabitest  the  humble  mind  ; 
Such  ever  bring  thee,  where  they  come. 
And  going,  take  thee  to  their  home. 

-y  Dear  Shepherd  of  thy  chosen  few  ! 
Thy  former  mercies  here  renew  ; 
Here,  to  our  waiting  hearts,  proclaim 
The  sweetness  of  thy  saving  name. 

4  Here  may  we  prove  the  power  of  prayJr, 
To  strengthen  faith,  and  sweeten  care  ; 
To  teach  our  faint  desires  to  rise, 
And  bring  all  heaven  before  our  eyes, 
B 


194  ORDINANCES.  Bk.  II. 

5  Behold  at  thy  commanding  word, 

We  stretch  the  curtain  and  the  cord  (l)  ; 
Come  thou,  and  fill  this  wider  space, 
And  bless  us  with  a  large  increase. 

6  Lord,  we  are  few,  but  thou  art  near  ; 
-Nor  short  thine  arm  nor  deaf  thine  ear; 

Oh  rend  the  heav'ns  come  quickly  down, 
And  make  a  thousand  hearts  thine  own ! 

XLV.   The  Lord's  Day. 

1  T  T  OW  welcome  to  the  saints,  when 
11  press'd 

With  six  days  noise,  and  care,  and  toil, 

Is  the  returning  day  of  rest, 

Which  hides  them  from  the  world  awhile  ? 

2  Now  from  the  throng  withdrawn  away, 
They  seem  to  breathe  a  cliff  'rent  air ; 
Compos'd  and  soften'd  by  the  day, 
All  things  another  aspect  wear. 

3  How  happy  if  their  lot  is  cast, 
Where  statedly  the  gospel  sounds  f 
The  word  is  honey  to  their  taste, 
Renews    their   strength,    and  heals    their 

wounds ! 

4  Tho'  pinched  with  poverty  at  home, 
-  With  sharp  affliction  daily  fed  ; 

It  makes  amends  if  they  can  come 

To  God's  own  house  for  heav'nly  bread  ! 

5  With  joy  they  hasten  to  the  place, 
Where  they  their  Saviour  oft  have  met; 
And  while  they  feast  upon  his  grace, 
Their  burdens  and  their  griefs  forget. 

G  This  favour'd  lot,  my  friends,  is  ours, 
May  we  the  privilege  improve  ; 
And  find  these  consecrated  hours, 
Sweet  earnest  of  the  joys  above  ! 

(1)  Isai.liv.  2. 


Hy.  46.  ORDINANCES;  195 

7  We  thank  thee  for  thy  day,  O  Lord, 
Here  we  thy  promis'd  presence  seek  ; 

-  Open  thine  hand  with  blessings  stor'd, 
And  give  us  manna  for  the  week. 

XLVI.     Gospel  privileges. 

1  S^~\   Happy  they  who  know  the  Lord, 
\J   With  whom  he  deigns  to  dwell ! 
He  feeds  and  cheers  them  by  his  word, 

His  arm  supports  them  well. 

2  To  them,  in  each  distressing  hour, 

His  throne  of  grace  is  near  ; 
And  when  they  plead  his  love  and  pow'r, 
He  stands  engag'd  to  hear. 

3  He  help'd  his  saints  in  ancient -days, 

Who  trusted  in  his  name  ; 
And  we  can  witness  to  his  praise  ; 
His  love  is  still  the  same. 

4  Wand'ring  in  sin,  our  souls  he  found, 

And  bid  us  seek  his  face  ; 
Gave  us  to  hear  the  gospel  sound, 
And  taste  the  gospel  grace. 

5  Oft  in  his  house  his  glory  shines 

Before  our  wond'ring  eyes  ; 
We  wish  not,  then,  for  golden  mines., 
Or  ought  beneath  the  skies. 

6  His  presence  sweetens  all  our  cares, 

And  makes  our  burdens  light ; 
A  word  from  him  dispels  our  fears, 

And  gilds  the  gloom  of  night. 
■7  Lord,  we  expect  to  suffer  here, 

Nor  would  we  dare  repine  ; 
But  give  us  still,  to  find  thee  near, 

And  own  us,  still,  for  thine. 

8  Let  us  enjoy,  and  highly  prize 

These  tokens  of  thv  love  * 


196  ORDINANCES.  Hy.  47. 

Till  thou  shalt  bid  our  spirits  rise, 
To  worship  thee  above. 

XLVII.     Another. 

1  TTAPPY  are  they  to  whom  the  Lord, 
JLl  His  righteous  name  makes  known  ! 
And  by  his  Spirit,  and  his  word  ^ 

Adopts  them  for  his  own  ! 

2  He  calls  them  to  his  mercy  seat, 

And  hears  their  humble  pray'r ; 
And  when  within  the  house  they  meet, 
They  find  his  presence  near. 

3  The  force  of  their  united  cries 

No  pow'r  can  long  withstand  ; 
For  Jesus  helps  them  from  the  skies, 
By  his  almighty  hand. 

4  Then  mountains  sink  at  once  to  plains, 

And  light  from  darkness  springs  ; 
Each- seeming  loss  improves  their  gainsr 
Each  trouble  comfort  brings. 

5  Tho'  men  despise  them,  or  revile. 

They  count  the  trial  small ; 
Whoever  frowns,  if  Jesus  smile, 
It  makes  amends  for  all. 

6  Tho'  meanly  clad,  and  coarsely  fed, 

And,  like  their  Saviour,  poor  ; 
They  would  not  change  their  gospel  bread 
For  all  the  worldling's  store. 

7  "When  cheer'd  with  faith's  sublimer  joys* 

They  mount  on  eagle's  wings  ; 
They  can  disdain,  as  children's  toys, 
The  pride  and  pomp  of  kings. 

8  Dear  Lord,  assist  our  souls  to  pay 

The  debt  of  praise  we  owe  ; 
That  we  enjoy  a  gospel  day, 
And  heav'n  begun  helow. 


Hy.  48, 49.         ORDINANCES.  19? 

XL VIII.    Praise  for  the  continuance  of  the 
Gospel    (1.) 

1    A\NCE,  while  we  aim'd  at  Zion's  songs, 
\J  A  sudden  mourning  check'd  our 

tongues  ! 
Then  we  were  call'd  to  sow  in  tears, 
The  seeds  of  joy  for  future  years. 

•2  Oft  as  that  memorable  hour 

The  changing  year  brings  round  again  ■; 
We  meet  to  praise  the  love  and  pow'r  ; 
Which  heard  our  cries,  and  eas'd  our  paiiti 

3  Come,  ye  who  tremble  for  the  ark, 
Unite  in  praise  for  answer'd  pray'r ! 
Did  not  the  Lord  our  sorrows  mark  ? 
Did  not  our  sighing  reach  his  ear  ? 

4  Then  smaller  griefs  were  laid  aside, 
And  all  our  cares  summ'd  up  in  one  f 
"  Let  us  but  have  thy  word,  we  cry'd3 
In  other  things,  thy  will  be  done." 

5  Since  he  has  granted  our  request, 
And  we  still  hear  the  Gospel  voice-; 
Altho'  by  many  trials  prest, 

In  this  we  can  and  will  rejoice. 

6  Tho'  to  our  lot  temptations  fall, 
Tho'  pain  and  want,  and  cares  annoy  j 
The  precious  gospel  sweetens  all, 
And  yields  us  med'cine,  food,  and  joy* 

XLIX.  A  famine  of  the  Word. 

1    f~^  LADNESS   was  spread  thro'  Israel's 
VT  host, 

When  first  they  manna  view'd  ; 

(1)  Wherever  a  separation  is  threatened  between  a  minis- 
ter and  people  who  dearly  love  each  other,  this  hymn  may 
be  as  seasonable  as  it  was  once  in  Olney. 

*U2 


198  ORDINANCES.  Ek.  IF. 

They  labour'd  who  should  gather  most, 
And  thought  it  pleasant  food. 

2  Bat  when  they  had  it  long  enjoy'd, 

From  day  to  day  the  same  ; 
Their  hearts  were  by  the  plenty  cloy'd, 
Altho'  from  heav'n  it  came. 

3  Thus  gospel  bread  at  first  is  priz'd, 

And  makes  a  people  glad  ; 
But  afterwards,  too  much  despis'd 
When  easy  to  be  had. 

4  But  should  the  Lord,  displeas'd  withhold 

The  bread  his  mercy  sends  ; 
To  have  our  houses  fill'd  with  gold, 
Would  make  but  poor  amends. 

3  How  tedious  would  the  week  appear^ 
How  dull  the  Sabbath  prove ; 
Could  we  no  longer  meet  to  hear 
The  precious  truths  we  love  ? 

6  How  would  believing  parents  bear 

To  leave  their  heedless  youth, 
Expos'd  to  ev'ry  fatal  snare, 
Without  the  light  of  truth  ? 

7  The  gospel,  and  a  praying  few^ 

Our  bulwark  long  have  prov'd  ; 
But  Olney  sure  the  day  will  rue, 
When  these  shall  be  remov'd. 

8  Then  sin,  in  this  once  favour'd  town, 

Will  triumph  unrestrain'd; 
And  wrath  and  vengeance  hasten  down? 
No  more  by  pray'r  detain'd. 

9  Preserve  us  from  this  judgment,  Lord, 

For  Jesus'  sake  we  plead  ; 
A  famine  of  the  gospel  word 
Would  be  a  stroke  indeed ! 


Ily.  50,  SI.       ORDINANCES.  ig§. 

L.  Prayer  for  ministers, 

1  f^i  HIEF  Shepherd  of  thy  chosen  sheep; 
V_y    From  death  and  sin  set  free ; 

May  ev'ry  under  shepherd  keep 
His  eye  intent  on  thee  ! 

2  With  plenteous  grace  their  hearts  prepare^ 

To  execute  thy  will  | 
Compassion,  patience,  love,  and  care? 
And  faithfulness,  and  skill. 

3  Enfiame  their  minds  with  holy  zeal, 

Their  flocks  to  feed  and  teach  ; 

And  let  them  live,  and  let  them  feel 

The  sacred  truths  they  preach. 

4  Oh,  never  let  the  sheep  complain, 

The  toys,  which  fools  amuse, 

Ambition,  pleasure,  praise,  or  gain, 

Debase  the  Shepherd's  views. 

5  He  that  for  these,  forbears  to  feed 

The  souls  whom  Jesus  loves  ; 
"Whate'er  he  may  profess,  or  plead, 
An  idle  shepherd  proves  (l). 

6  The  sword  of  God  shall  break  his  arm, 

A  blast  shall  blind  his  eye  j 
His  word  shall  have  no  pow'r  to  warm, 
His  gifts  shall  all  grow  dry. 

7  O  Lord,  avert  this  heavy  woe, 

Let  all  thy  shepherds  say  ; 
And  grace,  and  strength,  on  each  bestow^ 
To  labour  while  'tis  day. 


s 


LI.  Prayer  for  a  Revival. 

AVIOUR,  visit  thy  plantation, 
Grant  us,  Lord,  a  gracious  rain-F 
(1)  Zechariah  ix.  17, 


200  ORDINANCES.  Bk.  II. 

All  will  come  to  desolation, 

Unless  thou  return  again  ; 
Keep  no  longer  at  a  distance  ; 

Shine  upon  us  from  on  high ; 
Lest  for  want  of  thine  assistance, 

Ev'ry  plant  should  droop  and  die. 

2  Surely,  once  thy  garden  flourished, 

Ev'ry  part  look'd  gay  and  green  : 
Then  thy  word  our  spirits  nourish'4, 

Happy  seasons  we  have  seen  ! 
But  a  drought  has  since  succeeded,, 

And  a  sad  decline  we  see  ; 
Lord,  thy  help  is  greatly  needed, 

Help  can  only  come  from  thee. 

3  "Where  are  those  we  counted  leaders, 

Fill'd  with  zeal,  and  love,  and  truth  f 
Old  professors,  tall  as  cedars, 

Bright  examples  to  our  youth  ! 
Some,  in  whom  we  once  delighted, 

We  shall  meet  no  more  below, 
Some,  alas  !  we  fear  are  blighted, 

Scarce  a  single  leaf  they  show. 

4  Younger  plants — the  sight  how  pleasant, 

Covt-r'd  thick  with  blossoms  stood  j 
But  they  cause  us  grief  at  present, 

P'rosts  have  nipp'd  them  in  their  bud  ! 
Dearest  Saviour,  hasten  hither, 

Thou  canst  make  them  bloom  again; 
Oh,  permit  them  not  to  wither, 

Let  not  all  our  hopf-s  be  vain  ! 

5  Let  our  mutual  love  be  fervent, 

Make  us  prevalent  in  pray'rs  ; 
Let  each  one  esteemrd  thy  servant, 

Shun  the  world's  bewitching  snares  : 
Break  the  tempter's  fatal  power, 

Turn  the  stony  heart  to  flesh  ; 
jLnd  begin  from  this  good  hour, 

To  revive  thy  work  afresh. 


Hy.  52;  ORDINANCES.  2G1 

LII.  Hoping  for  a  Revival* 

1  T%  /TY  harp  untun'd,  and  laid  aside, 
IVX    (To  cheerful  hours  the  harp  belongs) 
My  cruel  foes,  insulting  cry'd, 

"  Come,  sing  us  one  of  Zion's  songs." 

2  Alas  !  when  sinners  blindly  bold, 
At  Zion  scoff,  and  Zion's  king  ; 

"When  zeal  declines  and  love  grows  cold 
Is  it  a  day  for  me  to  sing  ?  , 

3  Time  was,  whene'er  the  saints  I  met, 
With  joy  and  praise  my  bosom  glow'd  1 
But  now,  like  Eli,  sad  I  sit, 

And  tremble  for  the  ark  of  God» 

4  While  thus  to  grief  my  soul  gave  way^, 
To  see  the  work  of  God  decline, 
Methought  I  heard  my  Saviour  say> 

"  Dismiss  thy  fears,  the  ark  is  mine. 

5  "  Tho'  for  a  time  I  hide  my  face, 
Rely  upon  my  love  and  pow'r  ; 
Still  wrestle  at  the  throne  of  grace, 
And  wait  for  a  reviving  Hour. 

6  "  Take  down  thy  long  neglected  harp, 
I've  seen  thy  tears,  and  heard  thy  pray'r^ 
The  winter  season  has  been  sharp, 

But  spring  shall  all  its  wastes  repair.'* 

7  Lord,  I  obey,  my  hopes  revive, 
Come  join  with  me,  ye  saints,  and  sing  j 
Our  foes  in  vain  against  us  strive, 

For  God  will  help,  and  healing  bring, 

SACRAMENTAL  HYMNS. 
LIII.  (c)  Welcome  ta  the  Table. 

THIS  is  the  feast  of  heav'nly  wine^ 
And  God  invites  to  sun  ; 


202  ORDINANCES.  Bk.  II. 

The  juices  of  the  Living  Vine, 
Were  press'd  to  fill  the  cup. 

2  Oh,  bless  the  Saviour  ye  that  eat, 

"With  royal  dainties  fed  : 
Not  heaven  affords  a  costlier  treat, 
For  Jesus  is  the  bread  I 

3  The  vile,  the  lost,  he  calls  to  them, 

Ye  trembling  souls  appear  ! 
The  righteous  in  their  own  esteem, 
Have  no  acceptance  here. 

4  Approach  ye  poor,  nor  dare  refuse 

The  banquet  spread  for  you  ; 
Dear  Saviour,  this  is  welcome  news, 

Then  I  may  venture  too. 
3  Ir  guilt  and  sin  afford  a  plea, 

And  may  obtain  a  place  ; 
Surely  the  Lord  will  welcome  me, 

And  I  shall  see  his  face. 

LIV.  CHRIST  crucified. 

1   T T THEN  on  the  cross,  my  Lord  I  see 
V  V     Bleeding  to  death  for  wretched  me  i 
Satan  and  sin  no  more  can  move, 
For  I  am  all  transformed  to  love. 

3  His  thorns  and  nails,  pierce  thro'  my  heart;, 
In  ev5ry  groan  I  bear  a  part ; 

I  view  his  wounds  with  streaming  eyes, 
But  see  !  he  bows  his  head  and  dies  ! 
■  3   Come,  sinners,  view  the  Lamb  of  God, 
Wounded  and  dead,  and  bath'd  in  blood? 
Behold  his  side,  and  venture  near, 
The  well  of  endless  life  is  here. 

4  Here  I  forget  my  cares  and  pains ; 
I  drink,  yet  still  my  thirst  remains ; 
Only  the  fountain  head  above, 
Can  satisfy  the  thirst  of  love. 


Hy.  55, 56.         ORDINANCES.  203 

5  Oh,  that  I  thus  could  always  feel  ! 
Lord,  more  and  more  thy  love  reveal ! 
Then  my  glad  tongue  shall  loud  proclaim 
The  grace  and  glory  of  thy  name. 

6  Thy  name  dispels  my  guilt  and  fear, 
Revives  my  heart  and  charms  mv  ear; 
Affords  a  balm  for  ev'ry  wound, 
And  Satan  trembles  at  the  sound. 

LY.     (c)  Jesus  hastening  to  Suffer, 

1  rT*HE  Saviour,  what  a  noble  flame 

X     Was  kindled  in  his  breast, 
When  hasting  to  Jerusalem 
He  march'd  before  the  rest ! 

2  Good- will  to  men,  and  zeal  for  God, 

His  ev'ry  thought  engross  ; 
He  longs  to  be  baptiz'd  with  blood  (l) 
He  pants  to  reach  his  cross. 

3  With  all  his  suff'rings  full  in  view, 

And  woes,  to  us  unknown, 
Forth  to  the  task  his  spirit  flew, 
'Twas  love  that  urg'd  him  on. 

4  Lord,  we  return  thee  what  we  can ! 

Our  hearts  shall  sound  abroad 
Salvation,  to  the  dying  Man, 
And  to  the  rising  God. 

5  And  while  thy  bleeding  glories  here 

Engage  our  wond'ring  eyes  ; 
We  learn  our  lighter  cross  to  bear, 
And  hasten  to  the  skies. 


L 


LVI.     It  is  good  to  be  here* 

ET  me  dwell  on  Golgotha, 
Weep  and  love  my  life  away ! 

(1)  Luke  xii.  50. 


204  ORDINANCE S.  Bk.  II 

While  I  see  him  on  the  tree 
Weep,  and  bleed,  and  die  for  me  ! 

2  That  dear  blood  for  sinners  spilt, 
Shews  my  sin  in  all  its  guilt: 
Ah  my  soul  he  bore  the  load, 
Thou  hast  slain  the  Lamb  of  God, 

3  Hark  !  his  dying  word,  "  Forgive, 
Father,  let  the  sinner  live  ; 
Sinner,  wipe  thy  tears  away, 

I  thy  ransom  freely  pay." 

4  While  I  hear  thy  grace  reveal'd, 
And  obtained  a  pardon  sealM ; 
All  my  soft  affections  move ; 
Waken'd  by  the  force  of  love. 

5  Farewell  world,  thy  gold  is  dross, 
Now  I  see  the  bleeding  cross  ; 
Jesus  dy'd  to  set  me  free 

From  the  law,  and  sin,  and  thee. 

6  He  has  dearly  bought  my  soul, 
Lord,  accept,  and  claim  the  whole  I 
To  thy  will  I  all  resign, 

Now,  no  more  my  own,  but  thine. 

LVII.     Looking-  at  the  Cross, 

1  TN  evil  long  I  took  delight, 
JL    Unaw'd  by  shame  and  fear ; 
Till  a  new  object  struck  my  sight., 
And  stoppM  my  wild  career. 

2  I  saw  one  hanging  on  a  tree, 

In  agonies  and  blood  ; 
Who  fix'd  his  languid  eyes  on  me, 
As  near  his  cross  I  stood. 

3  Sure,  never  to  my  latest  breath, 

Can  I  forget  that  look  : 
It  seem'd  to  charge  me  with  his  death, 
Tho1  not  a  word  he  spoke. 


Hy.  58.  ORDINANCES.  &fr 

4  My  conscience  felt,  and  own'd  the  guilt, 

And  plung'd  me  in  despair  ; 

I  saw  my  sins  his  blood  had  spilt, 

And  help'd  to  nail  him  there. 

5  Alas  !  I  knew  not  what  I  did, 

But  now  my  tears  are  vain  ; 
Where  shall  my  trembling  soul  be  hid  I 

For  I  the  Lord  have  slain. 
3  A  second  look  he  gave,  which  said, 

"  I  freely  all  forgive  ; 
This  blood  is  for  thy  ransom  paid  | 

I'll  die,  that  thou  may'st  live." 
7  Thus,  while  his  death  my  sin  displays. 

In  all  its  blackest  hue  ; 
(Such  is  the  mystery  of  grace) 

It  seals  my  pardon  too. 
3  With  pleasing  grief,  and  mournful  joy5 

My  spirit  now  is  fill'd  ; 
That  I  should  such  a  life  destroy, 

Yet  live  by  him  I  kill'd. 

LVIII.     Supplies  in  the  Wilderness. 

1  "W THEN  Israel  by  divine  command, 

V  V     The  pathless  desert  trod, 
They  found,  though  'twas  a  barren  land, 
A  sure  -resource  in  God. 

2  A  cloudy  pillar  mark'd  their  road, 

And  screen' d  them  from  the  heat ; 
From  the  hard  rocks  the  water  flow'd? 
And  manna  was  their  meat. 

3  Like  them  we  have  a  rest  in  view, 
-     Secure  from  adverse  pow'rs  : 
Like  them  we  pass  a  desert  too  \ 

But  Israel's  God  is  ours. 
S 


206  ORDINANCES.  Bk.  1J. 

4  Yes,  in  this  barren  wilderness, 
He  is  to  us  the  same, 
By  his  appointed  means  of  grace,  . 
As  once  he  was  to  them. 
o  His  word  a  light  before  us  spreads 
By  which  our  path  we  see; 
His  love  a  banner  o'er  our  heads, 
From  harm  preserves  us  free. 

6  Jesus,  the  bread  of  life,  is  given 

To  be  our  daily  food  ; 
We  drink  a  wond'rous  stream  from  heav'n, 
'Tis  water,  wine,  and  blood. 

7  Lord,  'tis  enough  I  ask  no  more, 

These  blessings  are  divine  : 
I  envy  not  the  worldling's  store, 
If  Christ  and  heav'n  are  mine. 

L1X.  Communion  with  the  Saints  in  glory. 

i    -p  EFRESHED  by  the  bread  and  wine, 
X\    The  pledges  of  our  Saviour's  love: 
Now  let  our  hearts  and  voices  join 
In  songs  of  praise  with  those  above. 

2  Do  they  sing,  "  Worthy  is  the  Lamb  ? 
Altho'  we  cannot  reach  their  strains, 
Yet  we,  thro'  grace  can  sing  the  same, 
For  us  he  dy'd,  for  us  he  reigns. 

3  If  they  behold  him  face  to  face, 
While  we  a  glimpse  can  only  see  ; 
Yet  equal  debtors  to  his  grace, 
As  safe,  and  as  belov'd  are  we. 

4  They  had,  like  us,  a  suffering  tim*, 

Our  cares,  and  fears,  ami  griefs  they  knew : 
But  they  have  conquer'd  all  thro'  him, 
And  we,  ere  long,  shall  conquer  too. 

5  Tho'  all  the  songs  of  saints  in  light, 
Are  far  beneath  his  matchless  worth  : 


Hy.  60.  ORDINANCES.  207 

His  grace  is  such,  he  will  not  slight 
The  poor  attempt  of  worms  on  earth. 

ON  PRAYER. 
]LX.      (c)  Exhortation  to  Prayer. 

WHAT  various  hindrances  we  meet 
In  coming  to  a  mercy  seat ! 
Yet  who  that  knows  the  worth  of  pray'r 
But  wishes  to  be  often  there. 

2  Pray'r  makes  the dark'ned  cloud  withdraw, 
Pray'r  climbs  the  ladder  Jacob  saw  j 
Gives  exercise  to  faith  and  love, 

Brings  ev'ry  blessings  from  above. 

3  Restraining  pray'r  we  cease  to  fight; 
Pray'r  makes  the  Christian's  armour  bright : 
And  Satan  trembles,  when  he  sees 

The  weakest  saint  upon  his  knees. 

4  While  Moses  stood  with  arms  spread  widep 
Success  was  found  on  Israel's  side  (l) 

But  when  thro'  weariness  they  fail'd, 
That  moment  Amalek  prevail'd. 

5  Have  you  no  words  ?  Ah,  think  again, 
"Words  flow  apace  when  you  complain, 
And  fill  a  fellow-creatures  ear 

With  the  sad  tale  of  all  your  care. 

6  W~ere  half  the  breath  thus  vainly  spent, 
To  heav'n  in  supplication  sent ; 
Your  cheerful  song  would  oftner  be, 

"  Hear  what  the  Lord  has  done  for  me." 

LXI.      Power  of  Prayer. 

N  themselves,  as  weak  as  worms, 
How  can  poor  believers  stand, 

(1)  Exod.xvii.  11= 


208  ORDINANCES.  Bk.  II. 

"When  temptations,  foes,  and  storms, 
Press  them  close  on  ev'ry  hand  ? 

2  Weak,  indeed,  they  feel  they  are, 
But  they  know  the  throne  of  grace  ; 
And  the  God,  who  answers  pray  V. 
Helps  them  when  they  seek  his  face. 

3  Tho'  the  Lord  awhile  delay, 
Succour  they  at  length  obtain  ; 

He  who  taught  their  hearts  to  pray, 
Will  not  let  them  cry  in  vain. 

4  Wrestling  pray'r  can  wonders  do, 
Bring  relief  in  deepest  straits; 
Pray'r  can  force  a  passage  through 
Iron  bars  and  brazen  gates. 

5  Hezekiah  on  his  knees, 
Proud  Assyria's  host  subdu'd  : 
And  when  smitten  with  disease. 
Had  his  life  by  prayV  renew'd. 

6  Peter  though  confiVd  and  chain'd 
Pray'r  prevail'd  and  brought  him  out  > 
When  Elijah  pray'd  it  rain'd, 

After  three  long  years  of  drought. 

7  We  can  likewise  witness  bear, 
That  the  Lord  is  still  the  same ; 
Though  he  fear'd  he  would  not  hear, 
Suddenly  deliv'rance  came. 

8  For  the  wonders  he  has  wrought, 
Let  us  now  our  praises  give; 
And  by  sweet  experience  taught, 
Call  upon  him  while  we  live. 

ON  THE  SCRIPTURE. 

LXII.  (c)  The  light  and  glory  of  the  Word, 

1    rpHE  Spirit  breathes  upon  the  word, 
X     And  brings  the  truth  to  sight ; 


Hy.  63.  ORDINANCES.  209 

Precepts  and  promises  afford 
-     A  sanctifying  tight. 

2  A  glory  gilds  the  sacred  page, 

Majestic  like  the  sun  ; 
It  gives  a  light  to  every  age, 
It  gives,  but  borrows  none. 

3  The  hand  that  gave  it  still  supplies 

The  gracious  light  and  heat ; 
His  truths  upon  the  nations  rise, 
They  rise,  but  never  set. 

4  Let  everlasting  thanks  be  thine, 

For  such  a  bright  display, 
As  makes  a  world  of  darkness  shine 
With  beams  of  heav'nly  day. 

5  My  soul  rejoices  to  pursue' 

The  steps  of  him  I  love  ; 
Till  glory  breaks  upon  my  view 
In  brighter  worlds  above. 

LXIII.    The  Word  more  precious  than  Gold 

RECIOUS  Bible  !  what  a  treasure 
Does  the  word  of  God  afford  ! 
All  I  want  for  life  or  pleasure, 
Food  and  Med'cine,  Shield  and  Sword  : 
Let  the  world  account  me  poor, 
Having  this  I  need  no  more. 

2  Food  to  which  the  world's  a  stranger, 
Here  my  hungry  soul  enjoys  ; 

Of  excess  there  is  no  danger, 

Tho'  it  fills,  it  never  cloys  : 
On, a  dying  Christ  I  feed, 
He  is  meat  and  clrink  indeed  ? 

3  When  ray  faith  is  faint  and  sick!}'. 
Or  when  Satan  wounds  my  ni:ncl? 
Cordials  to  revive  me  quickly, 
Healing  med'eine's  here  I  find  : 

S  2 


210  ORDINANCES.  Bk.  II. 

To  the  promises  I  flee, 
Each  affords  a  remedy. 

4  In  the  hour  of  dark  temptation 
Satan  cannot  make  me  yield  ; 
For  the  word  of  consolation 

Is  to  me  a  mighty  shield  : 

While  the  scripture  truths  are  sure, 
From  his  malice  I'm  secure. 

5  Vain  his  threats  to  overcome  me, 
When  I  take  the  Spirit's  sword  ; 
Then  with  ease  I  drive  him  from  me, 
Satan  trembles  at  the  word : 

'Tis  a  sword  for  conquest  made 
Keen  the  edge,  and  strong  the  blade* 

6  Shall  I  envy  then  the  miser, 
Doating  on  his  golden  store  ? 
Sure  I  am,  or  should  be  wiser, 
I  am  rich  'tis  he  is  poor ; 

Jesus  gives  me  in  his  word, 

Food  and  Med'cine,  Shield  and  Sword. 

III.  PROVIDENCES. 

LXIV.     On  the  commencement  of  hostilities  in 
America, 

1  'THHE  gath'ring  clouds  with  aspect  dark 

JL     A  rising  storm  presage  ; 
Oh  to  be  hid  within  the  ark, 
And  shelter'd  from  its  rage  T 

2  See  the  commission'd  angel  frown  (l)  ! 

That  vial  in  his  hand, 
Fill'd  with  fierce  wrath  is  pouring  down 
Upon  our  guilty  land  ! 

3  Ye  saints,  unite,  in  wrestling  pray'r? 

If  yet  there  may  be  hope ; 

.(1)  Rev.  xvi.  1» 


Hy.  6S.  PROVIDENCES  21i 

Who  knows  but  mercy  yet  may  spare 
And  bid  the  Angel  stop  (l)  ! 

4  Already  is  the  plague  begun  (2) 

And  nVd  with  hostile  rage,  ' 
Brethren,  by  blood,  and  int'rest  one, 
With  brethren  now  engage. 

5  Peace  spreads  her  wings,  prepar'd  for  flight 

And  war  with  flaming  sword, 
And  hasty  strides  draws  nigh  to  fight 
The  battles  of  the  Lord. 

6  The  first  alarm,  alas,  how  few, 

While  distant  seem  to  hear  ! 
But  they  will  hear  and  tremble  too 
When  God  shall  send  it  near. 

7  So  thunder  o'er  the  distant  hills. 

Gives  but  a  murmuring  sound  ; 
-   But  as  the  tempest  spreads,  it  fills 

And  shakes  the  welkin  (3)  roundo 
&  May  we,  at  least  with  one  consent,. 

Fall  low  before  the  throne  ; 
With  tears  the  nation's  sins  lament,. 

The  churches,  and  our  own. 
9  The  humble  souls  who  mourn  and  pray, 

The  Lord  approves  and  knows  ; 
His  mark  secures  them  in  the  day 

When  vengeance  strikes  his  foes. 

FAST-BAY  HYMNS. 

LXy.  Confession  and  Prayer.   Dec.  13,  1776* 

1    /"*\K  may  the  pow'r  which  melts  the  rock 
\J   Be  felt  by  all  assembled  here  ! 
Or  else  our  service  will  but  mock 
The  God  whom  we  profess  to  fear ! 

(1)  1  Sam.  xxiv.  16.        (2)  Numb.  xvi.  46,        (3) Fir- 
mament or  Atmosphere. 


212  PROVIDENCES.  Uk.  If. 

2  Lord,  while  thy  judgments  shake  the  land, 
Thy  people's  eyes  are  fixed  on  thee  ! 

We  own  thy  just  uplifted  hand, 
"Which  thousands  cannot,  will  not  see. 

3  How  long  hast  thou  bestow'd  thy  care* 
On  this  indulg'd  ungrateful  spot ; 
While  other  nations  far  and  near, 
Have  envy'd  and  admir'd  our  lot. 

4  Here  peace  and  liberty  have  dwelt, 
The  glorious  gospel  brightly  shone  ; 
And  oft  our  enemies  have  felt, 

That  God  has  made  our  cause  his  own. 

5  But  ah  !  both  heav'n  and  earth  have  heard 
Our  vile  requital  of  his  love  ! 

We  whom,  like  children,  he  has  rear'd, 
XL-bels  against  his  goodness  prove  (l). 

6  His  grace  despis'd,  his  power  defy'd 
And  legions  of  the  blackest  crimes, 
Profaneness,  riot,  lust,  and  pride, 
Are  signs  that  mark  the  present  times. 

7  The  Lord  displeas'd,  has  rais'd  his  rod  ; 
Ah  !   where  are  now  the  faithful  few, 
Who  tremble  for  the  ark  of  God, 

And  know  what  Israel  ought  to  do  (2)  ? 
U   Lord,  hear  thy  people  ev'ry  where, 
Who  meet  to  mourn,  confess,  and  pray  } 
The  nation  and  thy  churches  spare, 
And  let  thy  wrath  be  turn'd  away. 

LXTI.   MOSES  and  AMALJEK.  (2.) 
:  February  27,  1778. 

1    TI7HILE  Joshua  led  the  armed  bands 
V  V     Of  Israel  forth  to  war  ; 
Moses  apart  with  lifted  hands 
En^ag'd  in  humble  pray'r. 
(1)  Isaiah,  i.  2.     (2)  1  Chrcn.  xii.32.  (3)  Exod.  xvii.  & 


Hy.  67.  PROVIDENCES.  213? 

2  The  armed  bands  hath  quickly  fail'd, 

And  perish.' d  in  the  fight ; 
If  Moses'  pray'r  had  not  prevail'd, 
And  put  the  foes  to  flight. 

3  "When  Moses'  hands  thro'  weakness  dropp'd;, 

The  warrior's  fainted  too  ; 
Israel's  success  at  once  was  stopp'd, 
And  Am'lek  bolder  grew. 

4  A  people  always  prone'  to  boast, 

Were  taught  by  this  suspence, 
That  not  a  numerous  armed  host 
But  God  was  their  defence. 

5  We  now  of  fleets  and  armies  vaunt,. 

And  ships  and  men  prepare, 
But  men  like  Moses  most  we  want, 
To  save  the  state  by  pray'r. 

6  Yet  Lord,  we  hope  thou  hast  prepar'd 

A  hidden  few  to-day  $ 
(The  nation's  secret  strength  and  guardj 
To  weep  and  mourn  and  pray. 
7.  O  hear  their  pray'rs,  and  grant  us  aid  * 
Bid  war  and  discord  cease  ; 
Heal  the  sad  breach  which  sin  has  made? 
And  bless  us  all  with  peace. 

LXVII.     The  hiding-place.  Feb.  10,  1779^ 

1    O  EE  the  gloomy  gath'ring  cloud 

O    Hanging  o'er  a  sinful  land  ! 

Sure  the  Lord  proclaims  aloud, 

Times  of  trouble  are  at  hand  ; 

Happy  they  who  love  his  name  [ 

They  shall  always  find  him  near ; 

Tho'  the  earth  were  wrapp'd  in  flame9 

They  have  no  just  cause  for  fear. 
%  Hark  his  voice  in  accents  mild, 

(Oh,  how  comforting  and  sweet !) 


214  PROVIDENCES.  Bk.  II. 

Speaks  to  ev'ry  humble  child, 

Pointing  out  a  sure  retreat ! 

u  Come,  and  in  my  chambers  hide,  (1) 

To  my  saints  of  old  well  known  ; 

There  you  safely  may  abide, 

Till  the  storm  be  overblown. 

3  "  You  have  only  to  repose 

On  my  wisdom,  love,  and  care  ; 
When  my  wrath  consumes  my  foes, 
Mercy  shall  my  children  spare  ; 
While  they  perish  in  the  flood, 
You  that  bear  my  holy  mark,  (2) 
Sprinkled  with  atoning  blood, 
Shall  be  safe  within  the  ark." 

4  Sinners,  see  the  ark  prepar'd  ! 
Haste  to  enter  while  there's  room  ; 
Tho  the  Lord  his  arm  has  bar'd, 
Mercy  still  retards  your  doom  ; 
Seek  him  while  there  yet  is  hope, 
Ere  the  day  of  grace  be  past, 
Lest. in  wrath  he  give  you  up, 
And  this  call  should  prove  your  last. 

LXVIII.    On  the  earthquake,  Sept.   8.  1775. 


A 


LTHOUGH  on  massy  pillars  built, 
The  earth  has  lately  shook  ; 
It  trembles  under  Britain's  guilt, 
Before  its  Maker's  look. 

2  Swift  as  the  shock  amazement  spreads, 

And  sinners  tremble  too  ; 
What  flight  can  screen  their  guilty  heads, 
If  earth  itself  pursue  ? 

3  But   mercy  spar'd  us  while  it  warn'd 

The  shock  is  felt  no  more  ; 


(1)  Isaiah  xxvi.  20,        (2)  Ezekiel  ix.  4. 


Hy.  69.  PROVIDENCES.  215 

And  mercy,  now,  alas  !  is  scorn'd 

By  sinners,  as  before. 
4  But  if  these  warnings  prove  in  vain, 

Sa*r,  sinner,  canst  thou  tell, 
How  soon  the  earth  may  quake  again, 

xind  open  wide  to  hell. 
3  Repent  before  the  Judge  draws  nigh  $ 

Or  else  when  he  conies  down, 
Thou  wilt   in  vain  for  earthquakes  cry, 

To  hide  thee  from  his  frown.  (1) 

6  But  happy  they  who  love  the  Lord, 

And  his  salvation  know  ; 
The  hope  that's  founded  on  his  word, 
No  change  can  overthrow. 

7  Should  the  deep  rooted  hills  be  hurl'd, 

And  plung'd  beneath  the  seas  ; 
And  strong  convulsions  shake  the  world, 
Your  hearts  may  rest  in  peace. 

8  Jesus,  your  Shepherd,  Lord,  and  Chief, 

Shall  shelter  you  from  ill ; 
And  not  a  worm  nor  shaking  leaf 
Can  move,  but  at  his  will. 

LXIX.  On  the  fire  at  Obiey,  Sept.  22,  1 77Y,  ■ 

1  T  X  TEARIED  by  day  with  toil  and  cares, 

\  V     How  welcome  is  the  peaceful  night, 
Sweet  sleep  our  wasted  strength  repairs, 
And  fits  us  for  returning  light. 

2  Yet  when  our  eyes  in  sleep  are  clos'd. 
Our  rest  may  break  ere  well  begun  ; 
To  dangers  every  hour  expos'd, 

We  neither  can  foresee  nor  shun. 

3  'Tis  of  the  Lord  that  we  can  sleep 
A  single  night  without  alarms ; 
His  eye  alone  our  lives  can  keep 
Secure  amidst  a  thousand  harms* 

(1)  Rev.  vi.  16, 


216  PROVIDENCES.  Bk.  11. 

4  For  months  and  years  of  safety  past, 
Ungrateful  we,  alas  !  have  been ; 
Tho'  patient  long,  he  spoke  at  last, 
And  bid  the  fire  rebuke  our  sin. 

5  The  shout  of  fire  !  a  dreadful  cry, 
Impress'd  each  heart  with  deep  dismay ; 
While  the  fierce  blaze  and  red'ning  sky, 
Made  midnight  wear  the  face  of  day. 

6  The  throng  and  terror  who  can  speak  ! 
The  various  sounds  that  fill'd  the  air  ! 
The  infant's  wail,  the  mother's  shriek, 
The  voice  of  blasphemy  and  pray'r ! 

7  But  pray'r  prevail'd,  and  sav'd  the  town  ; 
The  few  who  lov'd  the  Saviour's  name, 
Were  heard,  and  mercy  hasted  down 

To  change  the  wind,  and  stop  the  flame. 
S  Oh,  may  that  night  be  ne'er  forgot, 
Lord,  still  increase  thy  praying  few  ! 
Were  Olney  left  without  a  Lot, 
Ruin,  like  Sodom's  would  ensue. 

LXX.  A  welcome  to  Christian  Friends. 

1  TT  INDRED  in  Christ,  for  his  dear  sake, 
I\.   A  hearty  welcome  here  receive  ; 

May  we  together  now  partake 
The  joys  which  only  he  can  give  ! 

2  To  you  and  us  by  grace  'tis  giv'n, 

To  know  the  Saviour's  precious  name  ; 
And  shortly  we  shall  meet  in  heav'n, 
Our  hope,  our  way,  our  end  the  same. 

3  May  he,  by  whose  kind  care  we  meet, 
Send  his  good  Spirit  from  above, 
Make  our  communications  sweet, 

And  cause  our  hearts  to  burn  with  love  ! 

4  Forgotten  be  each  worldly  theme, 
When  Christians  see  each  other  thus  ; 


Hy.  n,  PROVIDENCES,  21 

We  only  wish  to  speak  of  him, 

Who  liv'd  and  dy'd,  and  reigns  for  us<> 

5  We'll  talk  of  all  he  did  and  said, 
And  suffer'd  for  us  here  below ; 
The  path  he  mark'd  for  us  to  tread, 
And  what  he's  doing  for  us  now* 

6  Thus,  as  the  moments  pass  away, 
We^ll  love,  and  wonder,  and  adore  ; 
And  hasten  on  the  glorious  day, 
When  we  shall  meet  to  part  no  more, 

LXXI.   At  parting. 

1  \   S  the  sun's  enliv'ning  eye 

JLJL,    Shines  on  ev'ry  place  the  same  $ 
So  the  Lord,  is  always  nigh 
To  the  souls  that  love  his  name. 

2  When  they  move  at  duty's  call, 
He  is  with  them  by  the  way  ; 
He  is  ever  with  them  all, 
Those  who  go,  and  those  who  stay, 

3  From  his  holy  mercy-seat 
Nothing  can  their  souls  confine  | 
Still  in   Spirit  they  may  meet, 
And  in  sweet  communion  join. 

4  For  a  season  call'd  to  part, 
Let  us  then  ourselves  commend 
To  the  gracious  eye  and  heart 
Of  our  ever  present  Friend. 

"5  Jesus,  hear  our  humble  pray'r, 

Tender  Shepherd  of  thy  sheep? 

Let  thy  mercy  and  thy  care, 

All  our  souls  in  safety  keep. 
6  In  thy  strength  may  we  be  strongs 

Sweeten  every  cross  and  pain  ; 

Give  us,  if  we  live,  ere  long 

Here  to  meet  in  peace  again. 
T 


218  PROVIDENCES.  Bk.  11. 

7  Then  if  thou  thy  help  afford, 
Ebenezers  shall  be  rear'd ; 
And  our  souls  shall  praise  the  Lord, 
Who  our  poor  petitions  heard. 

FUNERAL  HYMNS. 

LXXII.  On  the  Death  of  a  Believer, 

1  TN  vain  my  fancy  strives  to  paint, 
_l    The  moment  after  death  ; 

The  glories  that  surround  the  saints, 
When  yielding  up  their  breath. 

2  One  gentle  sigh  their  fetters  breaks, 

We  scarce  can  say,  M  They're  gone  !" 
Before  the  willing  spirit  takes 
Her  mansion  near  the  throne. 

3  Faith  strives,  but  all  its  efforts  fail, 

To  trace  her  in  her  flight : 
No  eye  can  pierce  within  the  vail 
Which  hides  that  world  of  light. 

4  Thus  much,  (and  this  is  all)  we  know, 

They  are  completely  blest ; 
Have  done  with  sin,  and  care,  and  woe, 
And  with  their  Saviour  rest. 
3  On  harps  of  gold  they  praise  his  name, 
His  face  they  always  view  ; 
Then  let  us  follow'rs  be  of  them, 
That  we  may  praise  him  too. 

6  Their  faith  and  patience,  love  and  zeal, 

Should  make  their  mem'ry  dear ; 
And,  Lord,  do  thou  the  prayers  fulfil, 
They  offer'd  for  us  here  I 

7  While  they  have  gain'd,  we  losers  are, 

We  miss  them  day  by  day  ; 
But  thou  canst  every  breach  repair, 
And  wipe  our  tears  away. 


Hy.  73,74.         PROVIDENCES.  £19 

8  We  pray  as  in  Elisha's  case, 
When  great  Elijah  went ; 
May  double  portions  of  thy  grace, 
To  us  who  stay,  be  sent. 

LXXIII.  (c)  On  the  death  of  a  Minister, 

1  T  TIS  Master  taken  from  his  head, 
JLjL     Elisha  saw  him  go  ; 

And  in  desponding  accents  said, 
-  "  Ah,  what  must  Israel  do  ?" 

2  But  he  forgot  the  Lord  who  lifts 

The  beggar  to  the  throne  ; 
Nor  knew,  that  all  Elijah's  gifts 
Would  soon  be  made  his  own. 

3  What,  when  a  Paul  had  run  his  course, 

Or  when  Apollos  dies  ; 
Is  Israel  left  without  resource  ? 
And  have  we  no  supplies  ? 

4  Yes,  while  the  dear  Redeemer  lives, 

We  have  a  boundless  store  ; 
And  shall  be  fed  with  what  he  gives, 
Who  lives  for  evermore, 

LXXIV.    The  tolling  Bell 

1  /^\FT  as  the  bell  with  solemn  toll, 
V^/    Speaks  the  departure  of  a  soul. 
Let  each  one  ask  himself,  u  Am  I 
Prepar'd,  should  I  be  call'd  to  die  f 

2  Only  this  frail  and  fleeting  breath 
Preserves  me  from  the  jaws  of  death  | 
Soon  as  it  fails,  at  once  I'm  gone, 
And  plung'd  into  a  world  unknown. 

3  Then  leaving  all  I  lov'd  below, 
To  God's  tribunal  I  must  go  | 


320  PROVIDENCES.  Bk.  IL 

Must  hear  the  Judge  pronounce  my  fate, 

And  fix  my  everlasting  state. 
4  But  could  I  bear  to  hear  him  say, 

u  Depart,  accursed,  far  away  ! 

With  Satan,  in  the  lowest  hell, 

Thou  art  for  ever  doomM  to  dwell." 
$  Lord  Jesus  !  help  me  now  to  flee, 

And  seek  my  hope  alone  in  thee  ; 

Apply  thy  blood,  thy  Spirit  give, 

Subdue  my  sin,  and  let  me  live. 
6  Then,  when  the  solemn  bell  I  hear, 

If  sav'd  from  guilt,  I  need  not  fear  : 

Nor  would  the  thought  distressing  be, 

Perhaps  it  next  may  toll  for  me. 
7.  Rather  my  spirit  would  rejoice, 

And  long,  and  wish  to  hear  thy  voice  y 

Glad  when  it  bids  me  earth  reign. 

Secure  of  heav'n  if  thou  art  mine. 

LXXV.  Hope  beyond  the  grave 1 

1  1\/TY  soul,  this  curious  house  of  clay, 
JLVJL    Thv  present  frail  abode, 

Must  quickly  fall  to  worms  a  prey, 
And  thou  return  to  God. 

2  Can'st  thou,  by  faith,  survey  with  joy, 

The  change  before  it  come  ? 
And  say,  "  Let  death  this  house  destroy,^ 
I  have  a  heav'nly  home  !" 

3  The  Saviour  whom  I  then  shall  see 

With  new  admiring  eyes, 
Already  has  prepaid  for  me, 
A  mansion  in  the  skies  (1). 

4  I  feel  this  mud-wall'd  cottage  shake, 

And  long  to  see  it  fall  ; 

(1)  2  Cor.v.  1-. 


Hr.  76'.  PROVIDENCES.  221 

That  I  my  willing  flight  may  take 
Yo  him  who  is  my  all. 

5  Burden'd  and  groaning  then  no  more, 

My  rescu'd  soul  shall  sing, 
As  up  the  shining  path  1  soar, 

"  Death,  thou  hast  lost  thy  sting." 

6  Dear  Saviour,  help  us  now  to  seek, 

And  now  thy  gracious  pow'r ; 
That  we  may  all  this  language  speak, 
Before  the  dying  hour. 

LXXVI.  There  the  Weary  are  at  Rest, 

r   f^  OURAGE,  my  soul !  behold  the  prize, 
Vy    The  Saviour's  love  provides  ; 
Eternal  life  beyond  the  skies, 
For  all  whom  here  he  guides. 

2  The  wicked  cease  from  troubling  there, 

The  weary  are  at  rest  (1)  ; 
Sorrow  and  sin,  and  pain  and  care, 
Ho  more  approach  the  blest, 

3  A  wicked  world,  and  wicked  heart. 

With  Satan  now  are  join'd  ; 
Each  acts  a  too  successful  part 
*"  In  harassing  my  mind. 

4  In  conflict  with  this  threefold  troop3 

How  weary,  Lord  am  I ! 
Did  not  thy  promise  bear  me  up 
My  soul  must  faint  and  die. 

5  But  fighting  in  my  Saviour's  strength. 

Though  mighty  are  my  foes, 
1  shall  a  conq'ror  be  at  length, 
O'er  all  that  can  oppose. 

6  Then  why,  my  soul,  complain  or  fear  I 

The  crown  of  glory  see  J 

(1)  Job  III.  17, 

T    2- 


222  PROVIDENCES.  Bk.  II. 

The  more  I  toil  and  suffer  here, 
The  sweeter  rest  will  be. 

LXXVII.   The  Day  of  Judgment. 

\    "FV  AY  of  judgment,  day  of  wonders  ! 
JU    Hark  !  the  trumpet's  awful  sound, 
Louder  than  a  thousand  thunders, 
Shakes  the  vast  creation  round  !  [confound  ; 
How  the  summons  will  the  sinners  heart 

2  See  the  Judge  our  nature  wearing, 
Cloth'd  in  majesty  divine  : 

You  who  long  for  his  appearing, 
Then  shall  say,  This  God  is  mine  !     [thine ! 
Gracious  Saviour  own  me  in  that  day  for 

3  At  his  call  the  dead  awaken, 
Rise  to  life  from  earth  and  sea ; 
All  the  pow'rs  of  nature  shaken 

By  his 'looks  prepare  to  flee  ;  [thee  ! 

Careless  sinner,  what  will  then  become  of 

4  Horrors  past  imagination, 

Will  surprise  your  trembling  heart, 
When  you  hear  your  condemnation, 
u  Hence,  accursed  wretch,  depart!       [part." 
Thou  with  Satan  and  his  angels  have  thy 

5  Satan,  who  now  tries  to  please  you 
Lest  you  timely  warning  take, 

When  that  word  is  past,  will  seize  you, 
Plunge  you  in  the  burning  lake  :  [stake. 

Think,  poor  sinner,    thy    eternal   all's  at 

6  But  to  those  who  have  confessed, 
Lov'd  and  serv'd  the  Lord  below  ; 

He  will  say,  "  Come  near,  ye  blessedy 
See  the  kingdom  I.  bestow  ; 

You  for  ever  shall  my  love  and  glory  know. 

7  Under  sorrows  and  reproaches, 

May  this  thought  your  courage  raise  r 


Hy.  78.  PROVIDENCES.  223 

Swiftly  God's  great  day  approaches, 
Sighs  shall  then  be  chang'd  to  praise  :  [blaze* 
We  shall  triumph  when  the  world  is  in  a 

LXXVIII.  The  day  of  the  LORD  (l). 

1  £^\  OB  with  one  piercing  glance  looks  thro' 
\J    Creations  wide  extended  frame  ; 
The  past  and  future  in  his  view, 

And  days  and  ages  are  the  same  (2). 

2  Sinners  wTho  dare  provoke  his  face, 
Who  on  his  patience  long  presume, 
And  trifle  out  his  day  of  grace, 
"Will  find  he  has  a  day  of  doom. 

3  As  pangs  t|ie  lab'ring  woman  feels, 
Or  as  the  thief,  in  midnight  sleep  ; 

So  comes  that  day  ;  for  which  the  wheels 
Of  time  their  ceaseless  motion  keep  ! 

4  Hark  !  from  the  sky,  the  trump  proclaims 
Jesus  the  Judge  approaching  nigh  ! 

See,  the  creation  wrapt  in  flames,. 
First  kindled  by  his  vengeful  eye  ! 

5  When  thus  the  mountains  melt  like  wax  | 
When  earth,  and  air,  and  sea,  shall  burn  : 
When  all  the  frame  of  nature  breaks, 
Poor  sinner  whither  wilt  thou  turn  ? 

6  The  puny  works  which  feeble  men 
Now  boast,  or  covet,  or  admire, 

Their  pomp,  and  arts,  and  treasures  then, 
Shall  perish  in  one  common  fire. 

7  Lord,  fix  our  hearts  and  hopes  above  ! 
Since  all  below  to  ruin  tends  : 

Here  may  we  trust,  obey,  and  love. 
And  there  be  found  amongst  thy  friendsa 

(1)  Book  III.  Hymn  4.  (2)  2  Pet,  iii.  8—10.. 


224  PROVIDENCES.  Bk.  IL 

LXXIX.   The  great  Tribunal  (1) 

1  TOXIN,  in  vision,  saw  the  day 

J    When  the  Judge  will  hasten  down  ; 
Heav'n  and  earth  shall  flee  away 
From  the  terror  of  his  frown  : 
Dead  and  living,  smail  and  great, 
Raised  from  the  earth  and  sea  ; 
At  his  bar  shall  hear  their  fate, 
"What  will  then  become  of  me  ? 

2  Can  I  bear  his  awful  looks  ? 
Shall  I  stand  in  judgment  then, 
"When  I  see  the  open'd  books, 
Written  by  the  Almighty's  pen  ? 

.  If  he  to  remembrance  bring, 
And  expose  to  public  view, 
Ev'ry  work  and  secret  thing ; 
Ah,  my  soul,  what  canst  thou  do  ? 

3  When  the  list  shall  be  produc'd 
Of  the  talents  I  enjoy'd  : 
Means  and  mercies  how  abused  ! 
Time  and  strength,  how  misemploy'd  ! 
Conscience  then  compell'd  to  read, 
Must  allow  the   charge  is  true  : 

Say,  my  soul,  what  canst  thou  plead 
In  that  hour,  what  wilt  thou  do  ? 

4  But  the  book  of  life  I  see, 
May  my  name  be  written  there ! 
Then  from  guilt  and  danger  free, 
Glad  I'll  meet  him  in  the  air  : 
That's  the  book  I  hope  to  plead, 
:Tis  the  gospel  open'd  wide  : 
"Lord,  I  am  a  wretch  indeed  ! 

I  have  sinn'd,but  thou  hast  dy'd  (1). 
5*  Now  my  soul  knows  what  to  do  ; 
Thus  I  shall  with  boldness  stand, 

(1)  Rev.  xx.  11,  12.    (2)  Rom,  vm.  34. 


Hy.  80.  CREATION. 

Number'd  with  the  faithful  few,  ' 
Own'd  and  sav'd  at  thy  right  hand  : 
If  thou  help  a  feeble  worm 
To  believe  thy  promise  now  ; 
Justice  will  at  last  confirm, 
What  thy  mercy  wrought  below. 


IV.    CREATION. 
LXXX.   The  old  and  new  Creation* 

1  HT^HAT  was  a  wonder-working  word 

JL     Which  could  the  vast  creation  raise  ! 
Angels  attendant  on  their  Lord;  (1) 
Admir'd  the  plan,  and  sung  his  praise. 

2  From  what  a  dark  and  shapeless  mass* 
All  nature  sprang  at  his  command  ! 
Let  there  be  light,  and  light  there  was, 
And  sun,  and  stars,  and^sea,  and  land. 

3  With  equal  speed  the  earth  and  seas, 
Their  mighty  Maker's  voice  obey'd ; 
He  spake,  and  strait  the  plants  and  trees, 
And  birds  and  beasts,  and  man  were  madca 

4  But  man,  the  lord  and  crown  of  all, 
By  sin  his  honour  soon  defacM  ; 

His  heart,  (how  alter'd  since  the  fall !) 
Is  dark,  deform'd,  and  void,  and  waste. 

5  The  new  creation  of  the  soul, 

Hoes  now  no  less  his  pow?r  display,  (2) 
Than  when  he  form'd  the  mighty  whole5 
And  kindled  darkness  into  day. 
8  Tho'  self-destroy'd,  O  Lord,  we  are3 
Yet  let  us  feel  what  thou  canst  do  ; 

(I)  Job  xxxviii.  7.  (2)  2  Cor.  iy.  6t 


226  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

Thy  word  the  ruin  can  repair, 
And  all  our  hearts  create  anew. 


LXXXI.   The  book  of  Creation. 

1  'T^HE  book  of  nature  open  lies, 

JL     With  much  instruction  stor'd  ; 
But  till  the  Lord  anoints  our  eyes, 
We  cannot  read  a  word. 

2  Philosophers  have  por'd  in  vain, 

And  guess'd  from  age  to  age  ; 
For  reason's  eye  could  ne'er  attain 
To  understand  a  page. 

3  Tho'  to  each  star  they  gave  a  name, 

Its  size  and  motions  teach, 
The  truths  which  all  the  stars  proclaim, 
Their  wisdom  cannot  reach. 

4  With  skill  to  measure  earth  and  sea, 

And  weigh  the  subtle  air  ; 
They  cannot,  Lord,  discover  thee, 
Tho'  present  every  where. 

5  The  knowledge  of  the  saints  excels 

The  wisdom  of  the  schools  ; 
To  them  his  secrets  God  reveals, 
Tho'  men  account  them  fools. 

6  To  them  the  sun  and  stars  on  high 

The  flow'rs  that  paint  the  field  (l). 
And  all  the  artless  birds  that  fly, 
Divine  instruction  yield. 

7  The  creatures  on  their  senses  press, 

As  witnesses  to  prove 
The  S  viour's  pow'r  and  faithfulness,. 
His  providence  and  love. 

8  Thus  may  we  study  nature's  book, 

To  make  us  wise  indeed  ! 

(1)  Matth.  vi.  26— 28. 


Hy.  82.  CREATION.  22 

And  pity  those  who  only  look 
At  what  they  cannot  read.  (1) 

LXXXII.   The  Rainbow* 

1  T  It  THEN  the  sun  with  cheerful  beams, 

V  V     Smiles  upon  a  lo wring  sky  ; 
Soon  its  aspect  soften'd  seems, 
And  a  rainbow  meets  the  eye  ; 

While  the  sky  remains  serene, 
This  bright  arch  is  never  seen. 

2  Thus  the  Lord's  supporting  pow'r 
Brightest  to  his  saints  appears, 
When  afflictions  threatening  hour 
Fills  their  sky  with  clouds  and  fears  ; 

He  can  wonders  then  perform, 
Paint  a  rainbow  on  the  storm.  (2) 

3  All  their  graces  doubly  shine, 
When  their  troubles  press  them  sore  $ 
And  the  promises  divine 

Give  them  joys  unknown  before  : 
As  the  colours  of  the  bow, 
To  the  cloud  their  brightness  owe. 

4  Favour'd  John  a  rainbow  saw  (3) 
Circling  round  the  throne  above ; 
Hence  the  saints  a  pledge  may  draw 
Of  unchanging  cov'nant  love  : 

Clouds  awhile  may  intervene, 
But  the  bow  will  still  be  seen. 

LXXXIII.   Thunder. 

i   \  "&THEN  a  black  o'erspreading  cloud 

V  V     Has  darken'd  all  the  air  ; 
And  peals  of  thunder  roaring  loud, 

Proclaim  the  tempest  near. 

H)  Rom.  i.  20.    (2)  Gen.  ix.  24.     (3)  Rev.  :v.  3, 


228  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

2  Then  guilt  and  fear,  the  fruits  of  sin, 

The  sinner  oft  pursue  ; 
A  louder  storm  is  heard  within, 
And  conscience  thunders  too. 

3  The  law  a  fiery  language  speaks, 

His  danger  he  perceives  : 

Like  Satan  who  his  ruin  seeks, 

He  trembles  and  believes. 

4  But  when  the  sky  serene  appears, 

And  thunders  roll  no  more  ; 
He  soon  forgets  his  vows  and  fears, 
Just  as  he  did  before. 

5  But  whither  shall  the  sinner  flee, 

When  natures  mighty  frame, 
The  pond'rous  earth,  and  air  and  sea,  (l) 
Shall  all  dissolve  in  flame  ? 

6  Amazing  day  !  it  comes  apace  ! 

The  Judge  is  hasting  down  ! 
Will  sinners  bear  to  see  his  face, 
Or  stand  before  his  frown. 

7  Lord,  let  thy  mercy  find  a  way 

To  touch  each  stubborn  heart ; 
That  they  may  never  hear  thee  say. 
"  Ye  cursed  ones,  depart." 

8  Believers  you  may  well  rejoice  ! 

The  thunders  loudest  strains 
Should  be  to  you  a  welcome  voice, 
That  tells  you,  "  Jesus  reigns  !" 

LXXXIV.   Lightning  in  the  Night. 

1     \     GLANCE  from  heav'n,  with  sweet 
JLJL  effect, 

Sometimes  my  pensive  spirit  cheers; 
Bat  ere  I  can  my  thoughts  collect, 
As  suddenly  it  disappears. 

(1)    2  Pet.  i:i.  10. 


Hy.  85.  CREATIOX,  229 

2  So  lightning  in  the  gloom  of  night, 
Affords  a  momentary  day  ; 
Disclosing  objects  full  in  sight, 
Which  6oon  as  seen,  are  snatch' d  awaye 

3  Ah!  what  avail  these  pleasing  scenes  ! 
They  do  but  aggravate  my  pain  ; 
While  darkness  quickly  intervenes, 
And  swallows  up  my  joys  again. 

4  But  shall  I  murmur  at  relief  ? 
Tho'  short  it  was  a  precious  view  $ 
Sent  to  control  my  unbelief, 

And  prove  that  what  I  read  is  true. 

5  The  lightning's  flash  did  not  create 
The  op'ning  prospect  it  reveal'd  ! 
But  only  shew'd  the  real  state 

Of  what  the  darkness  had  conceal'd. 

6  Just  so,  we  by  a  glimpse  discern 
The  glorious  things  within  the  veil; 
That  when  in  darkness  we  may  learn 
To  live  by  faith,  till  light  prevail. 

7  The  Lord's  great  day  will  soon  advance. 
Dispersing  all  the  shades  of  night ; 
Then  we  no  more  shall  need  a  glance, 
But  see  by  an  eternal  light. 

LXXXV.  On  the  Eclipse  of  the  Moon* 
July  30,  1776. 

I   ^THhe  moon  in  silver  glory  shone, 
A     And  not  a  cloud  in  sight, 
When  suddenly  a  shade  begun 
To  intercept  her  light. 
3  How  fast  across  her  orb  it  spread, 
How  fast  her  light  withdrew  ; 
A  circle,  ting'd  with  languid  red, 
Was  all  appear'd  in  view. 


u 


J30  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

3  "While  many,  with  unmeaning  eye, 

Gaze  on  thy  works  in  vain  : 
Assist  me,  Lord,  that  I  may  try 
r  Instruction  to  obtain. 

4  Fain  would  my  thankful  heart  and  lips 

Unite  in  praise  to  thee  ; 
And  meditate  on  thy  eclipse, 
In  sad  Gethsemane. 

5  Thy  people's  guilt,  a  heavy  load  ; 

(When  standing  in  their  room) 
Depriv'd  thee  of  the  light  of  God, 
And  fill'd  thy  soul  with  gloom. 

6  How  punctually  eclipses  move, 

Obedient  to  thy  will ! 
Thus  shall  thy  faithfulness  and  love, 
Thy  promises  fulfil. 

7  Dark,  like  the  moon  without  the  sun, 

I  mourn  thy  absence,  Lord  ! 
For  light  or  comfort  I  have  none, 

But  what  thy  beams  afford. 
3  But  lo  !  the  hour  draws  near  apace, 

When  changes  shall  be  o'er  ; 
Then  I  shall  see  thee  face  to  face, 

And  be  eclips'd  no  more. 

LXXXVI.     Moon-light. 

1  'THlIE  moon  has  but  a  borrow'd  1/ght, 

X     A  faint  and  feeble  ray  ; 
She  owes  her  beauty  to  the  night, 
And  hides  herself  by  day. 

2  No  cheering  warmth  her  beam  conveys, 

Tho'  pleasing  to  behold  ; 
"We  might  upon  her  brightness  gaze, 
Till  we  were  starv'd  with  cold. 

3  Just  such  is  all  the  light  to  man, 

Which  reason  can  impart, 


Hy.  87.  CREATION.  23 

It  cannot  shew  one  object  plain, 
Nor  warm  their  frozen  heart. 

4  Thus  moon-light  views  of  truth  divine 

To  many  fatal  prove  ; 
For  what  avail  in  gifts  to  shine  (l) 
Without  a  spark  of  love  ! 

5  The  gospel,  like  the  sun  at  noon. 

Affords  a  glorious  light : 
Then  fallen  reason's  boasted  moon 
Appears  no  longer  bright. 

6  And  grace,  not  light  alone,  bestows 

But  adds  a  quick'ning  pow'r; 
The  desart  blossoms  like  the  rose,  (2) 
And  sin  prevails  no  .more. 

LXX'XVII.   The  Sea.  (3) 

1  TF  for  a  time  the  air  be  calm, 

JL   Serene  and  smooth  the  sea  appears  I 
And  shews  no  danger  to  alarm 
The  untfxperienc'd  landsman's  fears. 

2  But  if  the  tempest  once  arise, 

The  faithless  water  swells  and  raves  ; 
Its  billows,  foaming  to  the  skies, 
Disclose  a  thousand  threat'ning  graves. 

3  My  untry'd  heart  thus  seem'd  to  me, 
(So  little  of  myself  I  knew) 
Smooth  as  the  calm  unruffled  sea, 
But  ah  !  it  prov'd  as  treach'rous  too  ! 

4  The  peace,  of  which  I  had  a  taste, 
When  Jesus  first  his  love  reveal'd  ; 
I  fondly  hop'd  would  always  last, 
Because  my  foes  were  then  conceal'd, 

5  But  when  I  felt  the  tempter's  pow'r 
Rouse  my  corruptions  from  their  sleep  : 

(1)  1  Cor.  xiii.  1.   (2).  Is.  xxxv.  1.    (3)  Bk.  I.  Hymn  115. 


232  CREATION.  Bk.  IL 

I  trembled  at  the  stormy  hour 

And  saw  the  horrors  of  the  deep, 
5  Now  on  presumptions'  billows  borne, 

My  spirit  seem'd  the  Lord  to  dare  ; 

Now  quick,  as  thought,  a  sudden  turn 

Plung'd  me  in  gulphs  of  black  despair. 
T  Lord,  save  me,  or  I  sink,  I  pray'd  ; 

He  heard  and  bid  the  tempest  cease ; 

The  angry  waves  his  word  obey'd, 

And  all  my  fears  were  hush'd  to  peace. 
8  The  peace  is  his  and  not  my  own, 

My  heart  (no  better  than  before) 

Is  still  to  dreadful  changes  prone, 

Then  let  me  never  trust  it  more. 

LXXXVIII.   The  Flood. 

1  ^HO'  small  the  drops  of  falling  rain, 

A     If  one  be  singly  view'd  ; 
Collected  they  o'erspread  the  plain, 
And  form'd  a  mighty  flood. 

2  The  house  it  meets  within  its  course, 

Should  not  be  built  on  clay  ; 
Lest  with  a  wild  resistless  force, 
It  sweep  the  whole  away. 

3  Though  for  awhile  it  seem'd  secure  v 

It  will  not  bear  the  shock ; 
Unless  it  has  foundations  sure, 
And  stands  upon  a  rock. 

4  Thus  sinners  think  their  evil  deeds, 

Like  drops  of  rain,  are  small ; 
But  it  the  power  of  thought  exceeds, 
To  count  the  sum  of  all. 

5  One  sin  can  raise,  tho'  small  it  seems 

A  flood  to  drown  the  soul  ; 
What  then,  when  countless  million's  streams 
Shall  join  to  swell  the  whole. 


Hy.  89.  CREATION.  233 

6  Yet,  while  they  think  the  weather  fair, 

If  warn'd  they  smile  or  frown  ; 
But  they  will  tremble  and  despair, 
When  the  fierce  flood  comes  down  I 

7  Oh  !  then  on  Jesus  ground  your  hope, 

That  stone  in  Zion  laid  ;  (l) 
Lest  your  poor  building  quickly  drop, 
With  ruin  on  your  head. 

LXXXIX.    The  Thaw. 

1  ^T^HE  ice  and  snow  we  lately  saw, 

X      Which  cover'd  all  the  ground  \ 
Are  melted  soon  before  the  thaw, 
And  can  no  more  be  found. 

2  Could  all  the  heart  of  man  suffice 

To  move  away  the  snow, 
To  clear  the  rivers  from  the  ice, 
Or  make  the  waters  flow  ? 

3  No,  'tis  the  work  of  God  alone  j 

An  emblem  of  the  pow'r 
By  which  he  melts  the  heart  of  stone3 
In  his  appointed  hour. 

4-  All  outward  means,  till  he  appears, 
Will  ineffectual  prove  ; 
Tho'  much  the  sinner  sees  and  hears*, 
He  cannot  learn  to  love. 
5  ,But  let  the  stoutest  sinner  feel 

The  soft'ning  warmth  of  grace  y 
Tho' hard  as  ice,  or  rocks,  or  steel, 
His  heart  dissolves  apace. 
§  Seeing  the  blood  which  Jesus  spilt. 
To  save  his  soul  from  woe, 
His  hatred,  unbelief,  and  guilt, 
All  melt  away  like  snow.  - 

(1)  Matt.  vii.  24.        2  Peter  ii,  6, 
V   2 


234  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

7  Jesus,  we  in  thy  name  intreat, 
Reveal  thy  gracious  arm  ; 
And  grant  thy  Spirit's  kindly  heat, 
Our  frozen  hearts  to  warm. 

XC.    The  Loadstone* 

IAS  needles  point  towards  the  pole, 

JL\.   When  touch'd  by  the  magnetic  stone  ; 
So  faith  in  Jesus,  gives  the  soul 
A  tendency  before  unknown. 

2  Till  then,  by  blinded  passions  led, 
In  search  of  fancy's  good  we  range  ; 
The  paths  of  disappointment  tread, 
To  nothing  fix'd,  but  love  of  change. 

3  But  when  the  Holy  Ghost  imparts 
A  knowledge  of  the  Saviour's  love  ; 
Our  wand'ring,  weary,  restless  hearts, 
Are  fix'd  at  once,  no  more  to  move. 

4  Now  a  new  principle  takes  place, 
Which  guides  and  animates  the  will, 
This  love,  another  name  for  grace, 
Constrains  to  good,  and  bars  from  ill. 

5  By  love's  pure  light  we  soon  perceive 
Our  noblest  bliss  and  proper  end  ; 
And  gladly  ev'ry  idol  leave, 

To  love  and  serve  our  Lord  and  Friend. 

6  Thus  borne  along  by  faith  and  hope, 
We  feel  the  Saviour's  words  are  true  ; 

"And  I,  if  I  be  lifted  up  (l) 

Will  draw  the  sinner  upward  too." 


'O", 


XCI.     The  Spider  and  the  Bee. 

N  the  same  flow'r  we  often  see 
The  loathsome  spider  and  the  bee  ; 

(1)  John  xii.  32s 


Hy.  92.  CREATION.  2T3^ 

Bat  what  they  get  by  working  there, 
Is  difPrentas  their  natures  are. 

2  The  bee  a  sweet  reward  obtains, 
And  honey  well  repays  his  pains  ; 
Home  to  the  hive  he  bears  the  store, 
And  then  returns  in  quest  of  more. 

3  But  no  sweet  flow'rs  that  grace  the  field, 
Can  honey  to  the  spider  yield  ; 

A  cobweb  all  that  he  can  spin, 
And  poison  all  the  stores  within. 

4  Thus  in  that  sacred  field  the  word, 
With  flow'rs  of  God's  own  planting  stor'd? 
"Like  bees  his  children  feed  and  strive. 
And  bring  home  honey  to  the  hive. 

5  There,  spider-like,  the  wicked  come, 
And  seem  to  taste  the  sweet  perfume  ; 
But  the  vile  venom  of  their  hearts, 
To  poison  all  their  food  converts. 

6  From  the  same  truths  believers  prize, 
They  weave  vain  refuges  of  lies  ; 
And  from  the  promise  license  draw, 
To  trifle  with  the  holy  law  ! 

7  "Lord,  shall  thy  word  of  life  and  love, 
The  means  of  death  to  numbers  prove  ! 
Unless  thy  grace  our  hearts  renew  (1) 
We  sink  to  hell,  with  heav'n  in  view. 

XCII.  The  Bee  saved  from  the  Spider* 

1  HT^HE  subtle  spider  often  weaves 

JL     His  unsuspected  snares, 
Among  the  balmy  flow'rs  and  leaves, 
To  which  the  bee  repairs. 

2  When  in  his  web  he  sees  one  hang, 

With  a  malicious  joy, 

(i)  Book  II.  Hymn  71. 


236  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

He  darts  upon  it  with  his  fang, 
To  poison  and  destroy. 

3  How  welcome  then,  some  pitying  friend, 

To  save  the  threaten'd  oee  ! 
The  Spider's  treach'rous  web  to  rend, 
And  set  the  captive  free. 

4  My  soul  has  been  in  such  a  case, 

When  first  I  knew  the  Lord, 
I  hasted  to  the  means  of  grace, 

Where  sweets  1  knew  were  stor'd. 

5  Little,  I  thought  of  danger  near, 

That  soon  my  joys  would  ebb; 
But  ah  !  I  met  a  spider  there, 
Who  caught  me  in  his  web. 

6  Then  Satan  rais'd  his  pois'nous  sting, 

And  aim'd  his  blows  at  me  ; 
While  I,  poor  helpless  trembling  thing, 
Could  neither  fight  nor  flee. 

7  But  oh  !  the  Saviour's  pitying  eye, 

Reliev'd  me  from  despair; 

He  saw  me  at  the  point  to  die 

And  broke  the  fatal  snare. 

8  My  case  his  heedless  saints  should  warn, 

Or  cheer  them  if  afraid  : 
May  you  from  me  your  danger  learn, 
And  where  to  look  for  aid. 


XCIII.      The  tamed  Lion, 

LION,  though  by  nature  wild, 
The  art  of  man  can  tame  ; 
He  stands  before  his  keeper,  mild, 


1  A 


And  gentle  as  a  lamb. 


,2  He  watches,  with  submissive  eye, 
The  hand  that  gives  him  food  j 
As  if  he  meant  to  testify 
A  sense  of  gratitude. 


Hy.  94.  CREATION.  .2sr 

3  But  man  himself,  who  thus  subdues, 

The  fiercest  beasts  of  prey, 
A  nature  more  unfeeling,  shews, 
And  far  more  fierce  than  they. 

4  Tho'  by  the  Lord  preserv'd  and  fed, 

He  proves  rebellious  still : 
And  while  he  eats  his  Maker's  bread, 
Resists  his  holy  will. 

5  Alike  in  vain,  of  grace  that  saves, 

Or  threat'ning  law  he  hears  : 
The  savage  scorns,  blasphemes,  and  raves? 
But  neither  loves  nor  fears. 

6  O  Saviour  !  how  thy  wond'rous  pow'r 

By  angels  is  proclaim'd  ! 
"When  in  thine  own  appointed  hour, 
They  see  this  lion  tam'd. 

7  The  love  thy  bleeding  cross  displays, 

The  hardest  heart  subdues  ; 
Here  furious  lions  while  they  graze, 
Their  rage  and  fierceness  lose.  (1) 

8  Yet  we  are  but  renew'd  m  part, 

The  Lion  still  remains  ;   , 
Lord,  drive  him  wholly  from  my  heart, 
Or  keep  him  fast  in  chains. 

XCIY.  Sheep. 

1  rTpHE  Saviour  calls  his  people  sheep, 

X     And  bids  them  on  his  love  rely  \ 
For  he  alone  their  souls  can  keep, 
,  And  he  alone  their  wants  supply. 

2  The  Bull  can  fight,  the  Hare  can  flee, 
The  Ant,  in  summer,  food  prepare  | 
But  helpless  sheep  and  such  are  we. 
Depend  upon  the  shepherd's  care. 

(1)  Isaiah  xi,  9. 


238  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

3  Jehovah  is  our  Shepherd's  name  (1), 
Then  what  have  we,  tho'  weak  to  fear  ? 
Our  sin  and  folly  we  proclaim, 

If  we  despond  while  he  is  near. 

4  When  Satan  threatens  to  devour ; 
When  troubles  press  on  every  side  ; 
Think  of  our  Shepherd's  care  and  pow'r. 
He  can  defend,  he  will  provide. 

0  See  the  rich  pastures  of  his  grace, 
Where,  in  full  streams,  salvation  flows  ! 
There  he  appoints  our  resting  place, 
And  we  may  feed,  secure  from  foes. 

6  There,  'midst  the  flock,  the  Shepherd  dwells, 
The  sheep  around  in  safety  lie  ; 

The  wolf,  in  vain,  with  malice  swells, 
For  he  protects  them  with  his  eye  (2). 

7  Dear  Lord,  if  I  am  one  of  thine, 
From  anxious  thoughts  I  would  be  free ; 
To  trust,  and  love,  and  praise,  is  mine, 
The  care  of  all  belongs  to  thee. 

XCV.    The  Garden. 

1  \     GARDEN  contemplation  suits, 
-Ijl    And  may  instruction  yield, 
Sweeter  than  all  the  flow'rs  and  fruits 

With  which  the  spot  is  fill'd. 

2  Eden  was  Adam's  dwelling-place, 

While  blest  with  innocence  ; 
But  sin  o'erwhelm'd  him  with  disgrace, 
And  drove  the  rebel  thence. 

3  Oft  as  the  garden-walk  we  tread, 

We  should  bemoan  his  fall ; 
The  trespass  of  our  legal  head 
In  ruin  plung'd  us  all. 

(1)  Psalm,  xxiii.  1.    (2)  Micahv.  3. 


Hy.  96.  CREATION.  239 

4  The  garden  of  Gethsemane, 

The  second  Adam  saw, 
Oppressed  with  woe  to  set  us  free 
From  the  avenging  law. 

5  How  stupid  we  who  can  forget, 

With  gardens  in  our  sight, 

His  agonies  and  bloody  sweat, 

In  that  tremendous  night ! 

6  His  church  as  a  fair  garden  stands, 

"Which  walls  of  love  inclose  : 
Each  tree  is  planted  by  his  hand  (1), 
And  by  his  blessing  grows. 

7  Believing  hearts  are  gardens  too, 

For  grace  has  sown  its  seeds  ; 
Where  once  by  nature  nothing  grew 
But  thorns,  and  worthless  weeds. 

8  Such. themes  to  those  who  Jesus  love, 

My  constant  joys  afford, 
And  make  a  barren  desert  prove 
The  garden  of  the  LorcL 

XCYI.    For  a  Gar  den- seat,  or  Summer-house* 

1  \     Shelter  from  the  rain  or  wind  (2), 
.IjL   A  shade  from  scorching  heat ; 

A  resting  place  you  here  may  find, 
To  ease  your  weary  feet. 

2  Enter,  but  with  a  serious  thought, 

Consider  who  is  near  ! 
This  is  a  consecrated  spot, 
The  Lord  is  present  here  ! 

3  A  question  of  the  utmost  weight, 

While  reading  meets  your  eye  l 
May  conscience  witness  to  your  state, 
And  give  a  true  reply  I 

(1)  Isaiah,  Ixi.  3.  (2)  Isaiah  xxxii.  2 


240  CREATION.  Bk.  1J 

0  Is  Jesus  to  your  heart  reveal'd, 

As  full  of  truth  and  grace  ? 
And  is  his  name  your  hope  and  shield, 
Your  rest  and  hiding  place  ? 

5  If  so,  for  all  events  prepar'd, 

Whatever  storms  may  rise, 
He  whom  you  love,  will  safely  guard. 
And  guide  you  to  the  skies. 

6  No  burning  sun,  or  storm,  or  raia, 

Will  there  your  peace  annoy  ; 
No  sin,  temptation,  grief,  or  pain, 
Intrude  to  damp  your  joy. 

7  But  if  his  name  you  have  not  known, 

Oh,  seek  him  while  you  may  ! 
Lest  you  should  meet  his  awful  frown, 
In  that  approaching  day. 

8  When  the  avenging  Judge  you  see, 

With  terrors  on  his  brow  ; 
AVhere  can  you  hide,  or  whither  flee, 
If  you  reject  him  now  .? 

XCVII.   The  creatures  in  the  LQRD's  Hands. 

1  nnHE  water  stood  like  walls  of  brass, 

X     To  let  the  sons  of  Israel  pass  (l), 
And  from  the  rock  in  rivers  burst  (2), 
At  Moses's  prayer  to  quench  their  thirst. 

2  The  fire  restrained  by  God's  commands, 
Could  only  burn  his  people's  bands  (3), 
Too  faint  when  he  was  with  them  there, 
To  singe  their  garments  or  their  hair. 

3  At  Daniel's  feet  the  lions  lay  (4), 

Like  harmless  lambs,  nor  touch'd  their  prey, 
And  ravens,  which  on  carrion  fed, 
Procur'd  Elijah  flesh  and  bread. 

(1)  Exod.  xiv.  22.  (2)  Numb.  xx.  11. 

(3)  Daniel  in.  27. 


Hy.  98.  CREATION.  241 

4  Thus  creatures  only  can  fulfil 
Their  great  Creator's  holy  will  ; 
And  when  his  servants  need  their  aid, 
His  purposes  must  be  obey'-d. 

0  So  if  his  blessing  he  refuse, 

Their  pow'r  to  help  they  quickly  lose  } 
Sure  as  on  creatures  we  depend, 
Our  hopes  in  disappointment  end. 

6  Then  let  us  trust  the  Lord  alone, 
And  creature- confidence  disown, 
Nor  if  they  threaten  need  we  fear, 
They  cannot  hurt  if  he  be  near. 

7  If  instruments  of  pain  they  prove 
Still  they  are  guided  by  his  love ; 
As  lancets  by  the  surgeon's  skill, 
Which  wound,  to  cure  and  not  to  kill* 

XCYIII.  On  Dreaming. 

1  T7ETHEN  slumber  seals  our  weary  eyes, 

V  V     The  busy  fancy  wakeful  keeps  ; 
The  scenes  which  then  before  us  rise, 
Prove  something  in  us  never  sleeps* 
3  As  in  another  world  we  seem, 
A  new  creation  of  our  own  ; 
All  appears  real,  though  a  dream, 
And  all  familiar  though  unknown. 

3  Sometimes  the  mind  beholds  again 
The  past  day's  business  in  review  ; 
Resumes  the  pleasure  or  the  pain  ; 
And  sometimes  all  we  meet  is  new. 

4  What  schemes  we  form,  what  pains  we  take. 
We  fight,  we  run,  we  fly,  we  fall, 

But  all  is  ended  when  we  wake, 
We  scarcely  then  a  trace  recal. 

5  But  though  our  dreams  are  often  wild, 
Like  clouds  before  the  driving  storm  \ 

X 


242  CREATION.  Bk.  II. 

Yet  some  important  may  be  stil'd, 
Sent  to  admonish  or  inform. 

6  What  mighty  agents  hare  access, 

What  friends  from  heav'n,  or  foes  from  hell, 
Our  minds  to  comfort  or  distress, 
When  we  are  sleeping,  who  can  tell. 

7  One  thing,  at  least,  and  'tis  enough, 
We  learn  from  this  surprizing  fact  5 
Our  dreams  afford  sufficient  proof, 
The  soul,  without  the  flesh,  can  act. 

3  This  life,  which  mortals  so  esteem, 
That  many  choose  it  for  their  all, 
They  will  confess  was  but  a  dream 
When  'wakenM  by  death's  awful  call. 

XCIX.   The  World. 

1  Q«  EE,  the  world  for  youth  prepares, 
O    Harlot  like,  her  gaudy  snares, 
Pleasures  round  her  seem  to  wait, 
But  'tis  all  a  painted  cheat. 

2  Rash  and  unsuspecting  youth, 
Thinks  to  find  thee  always  smooth, 
Always  kind,  till  better  taught, 
By  experience  dearly  bought. 

3  So  the  calm,  but  faithless  sea, 
(Lively  emblem,  world  of  thee) 
Tempts  the  shepherd  from  the  shore, 
Foreign  regions  to  explore. 

4  While  no  wrinkled  waves  are  seen, 
While  the  sky  remains  serene, 
Fill'd  with  hopes,  and  golden  schemes, 
Of  a  storm  he  little  dreams. 

5  But  ere  long  the  tempest  raves, 
When  he  trembles  at  the  waves  : 
Wishes  then  he  had  been  wise, 
But  too  late — he  sinks  and  dies. 


Hy.  100.  CREATION.  24.3 

6  Hapless  thus,  are  they,  vain  world, 
Soon  on  rocks  of  ruin  hurl'd, 
Who  admiring  thee,  untry'd, 
Court  thy  pleasure,  wealth,  or  pride, 

7  Such  a  shipwreck  had  been  mine, 
Had  not  Jesus  (Name  divine  !) 
Sav'd  me  with  a  mighty  hand, 
And  restor'd  my  soul  to  land. 

8  Now,  with  gratitude  I  raise 
Ebenezers  to  his  praise  ; 
Now  my  rash  pursuits  are  o'er, 
I  can  trust  the  world  no  more. 

C.   The  Enchantment  Dissolved. 

1    T>  LINDED  in  youth  by  Satan's  arts, 
JO   The  world  to  our  unpractis'd  hearts, 

A  flatt'ring  prospect  shows  ; 
Our  fancy  forms  a  thousand  schemes 
Of  gay  delights,  and  golden  dreams, 

And  undisturb'd  repose. 

%  So  in  the  desert's  dreary  waste, 
By  magic  pow'r  produc'd  in  haste, 

(As  ancient  fables  say) 
Castles  and  groves,  and  music  sweet, 
The  senses  of  the  trav'ier  meet, 
And  stop  him  in  his  way. 

3  But  while  he  listens  with  surprise, 
The  charm  dissolves,  the  vision  dies, 

'Twas  but  enchanted  ground  ; 
Thus  if  the  Lord  our  spirit  touch, 
The  world,  which  promis,d  us  so  much? 

A  wilderness  is  found. 

4  At  first  we  start  and  feel  distress'd, 
Convinc'd  we  never  can  have  rest9 


244  CREATION.  Bk.  U. 

In  such  a  wretched  place  ; 
But  he  whose  mercy  breaks  the  charm, 
Reveals  his  own  Almighty  arm, 

And  bids  us  seek  his  face. 

5  Then  we  begin  to  live  indeed, 

"When  from  our  sin  and  bondage  freed, 

By  this  beloved  Friend  : 
We  follow  him  from  day  to  day, 
Assur'd  of  grace  through  all  the  way, 
And  glory  at  the  end. 


TABLE 


TO  THE 


SECOND  BOOK, 


According  to  the  Order  and  Subject  of  the  Hymns* 


I.  SEASONS. 

Hymn. 

New  Year's  hymns. 

Time  how  swift  !     1 

Time  how  short !     2 

Uncertainty  of  life  3 

A  new  years  thought 

and  prayer  4 

D  ath  and  war         5 

Earthly  prospects 

deceitful  6 

Before  annual  sermons. 

Prayer  for  a  blessing? 

Another  8 

Another  9 

Casting  the  gospel 

net  10 

Pleading  for  and 

with  youth  11 
Prayer  for  chil- 
dren 12 
The  Shunamite  13 
Elijah's  prayer  14 
Preaching  to  the 
dry  bones  15 


I.  SEASONS. 

Hymn. 
The  rod  of  Moses  16 
God  speaking  from 

mount  Z'<on        17 
Prayer  for  power 

on  the  means      18 
Elijah's  mantle      19 

After  annual  sermons. 
David's  charge  to 

Solomon  20 

The  Lord's  call  to 

21 


2£ 


23 


his  children 
The  prayer  of 

Jabez 
Waiting  at  wis- 
dom's gates 
Asking  the  way  to 
Zion  24 

We  were  Phara,  h's 

bondmen  25 

Travelling  in  birth 

for  souls  26 


A  TABLE. 


I.  SEASONS. 

Hymn. 

We  are  ambassadors 


II.  ORDINANCES. 

Hymn. 
Prayer  for  ministers  50 


for  Christ  27  Prayer  for  a  revival   51 

Paul's  farewelcharge28  Hoping  for  a  revival  52 


How  shall  I  put  thee 
among  the  chil- 
dren I  29 

Winter  30 

Waiting  for  Spring 

Spring 

Another 

Summer  ^storms 


Sacrament  Hymns. 
Welcome  to  the  table53 


Christ  crucified 


54 


Hay-time 
Harvest 


Christmas. 

Praise  for  the  incar- 
nation 

Jehovah-Jesus 

Man  honoured  above 
angels 

Saturday  evening 

Close  of  the  year, 
Ebenezer 

Another 


«1  Jesus  hasting  to  suffer  55 

«0  It  is  good  to  be  here  56 

~  Looking  at  the  cross  57 

'Supplies  in  the  wil- 
rtj     derness 

'Communion  with 
saints  in  glory 
Prayer. 


58 


59 


pray 


37 
38 

39 
40 

41 

42 


Exhortation  to 

er 
Power  of  prayer 

Scripture. 
Light  and  glory  of 

the  word 
Word  more  precious 

than  gold  63 


60 
61 


62 


II.  ORDINANCES. 

Opening  a  place  for 

social  prayer  43 

Another  44 

The  Lord's  day  45 
Gospel  privileges  46 
Another  47 

Praise  for  their  con- 
tinuance 48 
A  famine  of  the  word  49 


III.  PROVIDENCES 

On  the  commencement 
of  hostilities  in  A- 
merica.  64 

Fast-Day  Hymns. 

Confession  and  Pray- 
er 65 

Moses  and  Amalek  66 
The  hiding  place  67 
On  the  earthquake, 

1775  68 

Fire  at  Olney,  1777  69 


A  TABLE. 


72 


IH.  PROVIDENCES, 

Hymn. 

Welcome  to  chris- 
tian friends  7C 

At  parting  71 

Funeral  Hymns. 

On  the  death  of  a 
believer 

Death  of  a  minister 

The  tolling  bell 

Hope  beyond  the 
grave 

There  the  weary  are 
at  rest 

The  day  of  Judg- 
ment 

The  day  of  the  Lord  78 

The  great  tribunal      79 


IV.  CREATION, 

Hymn, 

Lightning  in  the 

night  84 

Eclipse  of  the  Moon, 


1776 

Moon  light 
jThe  sea 
73  The  flood 


74 


75 


71 


The  thaw 
The  loadstone 
Spider  and  bee 
Bee  saved  from  the 
76|     spider 

The  tamed  lion. 

Sheep 

The  garden 

For  a  garden-seat,  or 


IV.  CREATION. 

The  old  and  new 

creation  80 

Book  of  creation         81 
The  rainbow  82 

Thunder  83 


summer  house 
Creatures  in  the 

Lord's  hands 
On  dreaming 
The  world 
The  inchantment 

dissolved 


85 
86 
87 
88 
89 
90 
91 

92 
93 
94 
95 

96 

97 
98 
99 

100 


END  OF  THE  SECOND  BOOK 


OLNEY  HYMNS,  ®v. 


BOOK  III. 

On  the  Rise,  Progress,  Changes,  and  Comforts 
of  the  Spiritual  Life. 

(Under  the  following  Heads.) 


I.  Solemn  addresses  to 
Sinners. 

II.  Seeking,    Pleading, 
Hoping. 

III.  Conflict. 

IV.  Comfort. 

V.  Dedication  and  sur 
render. 


VI.  Cautious. 

VII.  Praise. 

VIII.  Short  Hymns. 
Before  Sermon. 
After  Sermon. 
Gloria  Patria. 


I.  Solemn  Addresses  to  Sinners* 
HYMN  I. 

Expostulation. 

NO  words  can  declare, 
No  fancy  can  paint, 
What  rage  and  despair, 
"What  hopeless  complaint, 
Fill  Satan's  dark  dwelling, 
The  prison  beneath; 
"What  weeping  and  yelling, 
And  gnashing  of  teeth  ! 
Yet  sinners  will  choose 
This  dreadful  abode, 
Each  madly  pursues 
The  dangerous  road; 
Tho'  God  give  them  warning, 
They  onward  will  go, 


Bk.  II.        To  SINNERS.  249 

They  answer  with  scorning, 
And  rush  upon  woe. 

3  How  sad  to  behold, 
The  rich  and  the  poor, 
The  young  and  the  old, 
All  blindly  secure  ! 

All  posting  to  ruin, 
Refusing  to  stop  ; 
Ah  !  Think  what  you're  doings 
While  yet  there  is  hope. 

4  How  weak  is  our  hand, 
To  fight  with  the  Lord ! 
How  can  you  withstand, 
The  edge  of  his  sword  ! 
What  hope  of  escaping 
For  those  who  oppose, 
When  hell  is  wide  gaping; 
To  swallow  his  foes* 

5  How  oft  have  you  dar'd 
The  Lord  to  his  face  ! 
Yet  still  you  are  spar'd 
To  hear  of  his  grace  | 
Oh  pray  for  repentance,. 
And  life-giving  faith, 
Before  the  just  sentence 
Consign  you  to  death* 

G  It  is  not  too  late 
To  Jesus  to  flee, 
His  mercy  is  great. 
His  pardon  is  free  ! 
His  blood  has  such  virtue 
For  all  that  believe, 
That  nothing  can  hurt  vou^ 
If  him  you  receive, 


250  To  SIN1VERS.  Bk.  Ill, 

II.   Alarm. 

1  O  TOP,  poor  sinner  !  stop  and  think 
O    Before  you  farther  go  ! 

Will  you  sport  upon  the  brink 

Of  everlasting  woe  ? 
Once  again  I  charge  you,  stop  ! 
For  unless  you  warning  take, 
Ere  you  are  aware,  you  drop 

Into  the  burning  lake. 

2  Say,  have  you  an  arm  like  God, 

That  you  his  will  oppose  ? 
Fear  you  not  that  iron  rod 

With  which  he  breaks  his  foes  ? 
Can  you  stand  in  that  dread  day, 
When  he  judgment  shall  proclaim, 
And  the  earth  shall  melt  away 

Like  wax  before  the  flame  ? 

3  Pale-fac'd  death  will  quickly  come 

To  drag  you  to  his  bar  ; 
Then  to  hear  your  awful  doom^ 

Will  fill  you  with  despair  : 
All  your  sins  will  round  vou  croud, 
Sins  of  a  blood-crimson  dye  ; 
Each  for  vengeance  crying  loud  ; 
And  what  can  you  reply  ! 

4  Tho'  your  heart  be  made  of  steel, 

Your  forehead  lin'd  with  brass, 
God  at  length  will  make  you  feel, 

He  will  not  let  you  pass  : 
Sinners  then  in  vain  will  call, 
(Tho'  they  now  despise  his  grace) 
Rocks  and  mountains  on  us  fall,  (1) 

And  hide  us  from  his  face. 

5  But  as  yet  there  is  a  hope 

You  may  his  mercy  know  \ 

(l).Rev.vi-  6. 


Hy.  3.  To   SINNERS.  251 

Tho'  his  arm  is  lifted  up. 

He  still  forbears  the  blow  : 
'Twas  for  sinners  Jesus  dy'd, 
Sinners  he  invites  to  come  ; 
None  who  come  shall  be  deny'd, 

He  says,  "  There  still  is  room,  (l) 

III.     We  were  once  as  you  are, 

1  Q<  HALL  men  pretend  to  pleasure 
O    Who  never  knew  the  Lord  t 
Can  all  the  worldling's  treasure 

True  peace  of  mind  afford  ? 
They  shall  obtain  this  jewel 

In  what  their  hearts  desire, 
When  they  by  adding  fuel 

Can  quench  the  flame  of  fire. 

2  Till  you  can  bid  the  ocean, 

When  furious  tempests  roar,  (2) 
Forget  its  wonted  motion, 

And  rage  and  swell  no  more  : 
In  vain  your  expectation 

To  find  content  in  sin ; 
Or  freedom  from  vexation, 

While  passions  reign  within. 

3  Come  turn  your  thoughts  to  Jesus, 

If  you  would  good  possess  ; 
Tis  he  alone  that  frees  us 

From  guilt,  and  from  distress  : 
When  he  by  faith  is  present, 

The  sinner's  troubles  cease 
His  ways  are  truly  pleasant, 

And  all  his  paths  are  peace. 

4  Our  time  in  sin  we  wasted, 

And  fed  upon  the  wind  $ 
Until  his  love  we  tasted, 
No  comfort  could  we  find  : 

(1)  Luke  xiv-  22,        (2)  Isaiah  Ivii.  20,  21. 


252  To  SINNERS.  Br,  IIL 

But  now  we  stand  to  witness 

His  pow'r  and  grace  to  you  ; 
May  you  perceive  its  fitness, 

And  call  upon  him  too  ! 
5  Our  pleasure  and  our  duty, 

Though  opposite  before, 
Since  we  have  seen  his  beauty, 

Are  join'd  to  part  no  more : 
It  is  our  highest  pleasure, 

No  less  than  duty's  call, 
To  love  him  beyond  measure, 

And  serve  him  with  our  all. 

IV.     Prepare  to  meet  GOD. 

1  Q  INNER,  art  thou  still  secure  ? 
O   Wilt  thou  still  refuse  to  pray  ? 
Can  thy  heart  or  hands  endure 

In  the  Lord's  avenging  day? 
See,  his  mighty  arm  is  bar'd  \ 
Awful  terrors  clothe  his  brow  .' 
For  his  judgment  stand  prepar'd, 
Thou  must  either  break  or  bow. 

2  At  his  presence  nature  shakes, 
Earth  affrighted  hastes  to  flee  ; 
Solid  mountains  melt  like  wax, 
"What  will  then  become  of  thee  ? 
Who  his  advent  may  abide  ? 
You  that  glory  in  your  shame, 
Will  you  find  a  place  to  hide 
When  the  world  is  wrapt  in  flame  ? 

3  Then  the  rich,  the  great,  the  wise, 
Trembling,  guilty,  self-condemn'd  ; 
Must  behold  the  wrathful  eyes 

Of  the  Judge  they  once  blasphem'd  : 
Where   are  now  their  haughty  looks, 
Oh,  their  horror  and  despair  ! 


Hy.  5.  To  SINNERS.  253 

When  they  see  the  open'd  books, 
And  their  dreadful  sentence  hear  ! 

4  Lord,  prepare  us  by  thy  grace  ! 
Soon  we  must  resign  our  breath  ; 
And  our  souls  be.  call'd  to  pass 
Through  the  iron  gate  of  death  : 
Let  us  now  our  day  improve, 
Listen  to  the  gospel  voice  ; 
Seek  the  things  that  are  above  ; 
Scorn  the  world's  pretended  joys. 

5  Oh  !  when  flesh  and  heart  shall  fail, 
Let  thy  love  our  spirits  cheer  ; 
Strengthen'd  thus  we  shall  prevail 
Over  Satan,  sin,  and  fear  : 
Trusting  in  thy  precious  name, 
May  we  thus  our  journey  end  ; 
Then  our  foes  shall  lose  their  aim, 
And  the  Judge  will  be  our  Friend. 

"V.      Invitation* 

1  Q  INNER,  hear  the  Saviour's  call. 
O    He  now  is  passing  by  \ 

He  has  seen  thy  grievous  thrall, 
And  heard  thy  mournful  cry  ; 
He  has  pardons  to  impart, 
Grace  to  save  thee  from  thy  fears, 
See  the  love  that  fills  his  heart, 
And  wipes  away  thy  tears. 

2  Why  art  thou  afraid  to  come 

And  tell  him  all  thy  case? 
He  will  not  pronounce  thy  doom.. 

Nor  frown  thee  from  his  face  : 
W7ilt  thou  fear  Emmanuel  ? 
Wilt  thou  dread  the  Lamb  of  God, 
Who  to  save  thy  soul  from  hell, 

Has  shed  his  precious  blood  ? 


254  To  SINNERS.  Bk.  III. 

3  Think'  how  on  the  cross  he  hung 

Pierc'd  with  a  thousand  wounds! 
Hark,  from  each  as  with  a  tongue, 
i     The  voice  of  pardon  sounds  ! 
See,  from  all  his  bursting  veins, 
Blood  of  wond'rous  virtue,  flow  ? 
Shed  to  wash  away  thy  stains, 
And  ransom  thee  from  woe. 

4  Though  his  majesty  be  great 

His  mercy  is  no  less  ; 
Though  he  thy  transgressions  hate, 

He  feels  for  thy  distress  : 
By  himself  the  Lord  has  sworn, 
He  delights  not  in  thy  death  (l) 
But  invites  thee  to  return, 

That  thoumayst  live  by  faith. 

5  Raise  thy  downcast  eyes  and  see 

What  throngs  his  throne  surround  ? 
These,  though  sinners  once  like  thee, 

Have  full  salvation  found  : 
Yield  not  then  to  unbelief! 
While  he  says,  u  There  yet  is  room  ;" 
Though  of  Sinners  thou  art  chief, 

Since  Jesus  calls  thee,  come. 


SIMILAR  HYMNS. 

Book  I.  Hymn  75,  91. 

Book  II.    Hymn  1,  2,  3,  4,  6,  35,  77,  78,  83. 


(1)  Ezekiel  xxxiii.  11. 


Hy.  6.  SEEKING,  &e. 

II.  Seeking,  Pleading,  and  Hoping. 

VI.     The  burdened  Sinner, 
H,  what  can  I  do, 


A 


Or,  where  be  secure  ! 
If  justice  pursue 
What  heart  can  endure  ! 
The  heart  breaks  asunder, 
Though  hard  as  a  stone, 
When  God  speaks  in  thunder, 
And  makes  himself  known. 

2  With  terror  I  read 
My  sins'  heavy  score, 
The  number  exceeds, 
The  sands  on  the  shore  ; 
Guilt  makes  me  unable 
To  stand  or  to  flee, 

80  Cain  murder'd  Abel, 
And  trembled  like  me. 

3  Each  sin,  like  his  blood, 
Writh  a  terrible  cry, 
Calls  loudly  on  God 
To  strike  from  on  high  : 
Nor  can  my  repentance, 
Extorted  by  fear, 
Reverse  the  just  sentence, 
'Tis  just,  though  severe. 

4  The  case  is  too  plain, 

I  have  my  own  choice  ; 
Again  and  again, 
I  slighted  his  voice, 
His  warnings  neglected, 
His  patience  abus'd 
His  gospel  rejected, 
His  mercy  refus'd. 
£  And  must  I  then  go. 
For  ever  to  dwell 


2q6  SEEKING,  &c.  Bk.  III. 

In  torments  and  woe 
"With  devils  in  hell ! 
Oh  !  where  is  the  Saviour 
I  scorn'd  in  times  past  ? 
His  word  in  my  favour 
Would  save  me  at  last. 

6  Lord  Jesus,  on  thee 
I  venture  to  call, 
Oh  look  upon   me 
The  vilest  of  all ; 

For  whom  didst  thou  languish,. 

And  bleed  on  the  tree  ? 

Oh  pity  my  anguish  ; 

And  say,  "  'Twas  for  thee." 

7  A  case  such  as  mine 
Will  honour  thy  pow'r 
All  hell  will  repine, 
All  heav'n  will  adore  £ 
If  in  condemnation 
Strict  justice  takes  place, 
It  shines  in  salvation 

More  glorious  through  grace.- 

VII.     Behold  I  am  vile: 

1  S~\  Lord,  how  vile  am  I, 
V_>/  Unholy  and  unclean  ! 
How  can  I  dare  to  venture  nigh 

With  such  a  load  of  sin  ? 

2  Is  this  polluted  heart 

A  dwelling  fit  for  thee  ? 
Swarming,  alas  !  in  evVy  part* 
What  evils  do  I  see  ! 

3  If  I  attempt  to  pray, 

And  lisp  thy  holy  name  ; 
My  thoughts  are  hurry 'd  soon  away, 
I  know  not  where  I  am. 


Hy.  8.  SEEKING,  &c.  257 

4  If  in  thy  word  I  look, 

Such  darkness  fills  my  mind, 
I  only  read  a  sealed  book, 
But  no  relief  can  find. 

5  Thy  gospel  oft  I  hear, 

But  hear  it  still  in  vain  ; 
"Without  desire,  or  love,  or  fear, 
I  like  a  stone  remain. 

6  Myself  can  hardly  bear 

This  wretched  heart  of  mine  ; 
How  hateful  then  must  it  appear 
To  those  pure  eyes  of  thine  ? 

7  And  must  I  then  indeed 

Sink  in  despair  and  die  ? 
Fain  would  I  hope  that  thou  didst  bleed 
For  such  a  wretch  as  I. 

8  That  blood  which  thou  hast  spilt, 

That  grace  which  is  thine  own  ; 
Can  cleanse  the  vilest  sinners  guilt, 
And  soften  hearts  of  stone. 

9  Low  at  thy  feet  I  bow, 

Oh  pity  and  forgive  ! 
Here  will  I  lie  and  wait  till  thou 
Shalt  bid  me  rise  and  live. 

VIII.   (c)    The  shining-  Light* 

1  ~j\/TY  former  hopes  are  dead, 
±VJL  My  terrors  now  begins  f 
I  feel,  alas  !  that  I  am  dead 

In  trespasses,  and  sins. 

2  Ah  whither  shall  I  fly  ? 

I  hear  the  thunde r  roar ; 
Th-  law  proclaims  destruction  nigh, 
And  vengeance  at  the  door. 

3  When  I  review  my  ways, 

I  dread  impending  doom  j 
Y  2 


258  SEEKING,  &c.  Bk.  III. 

But  sure  a  friendly  whisper  says, 
u  Flee  from  the  wrath  to  come." 
4  I  see,  or  think  I  see, 

A  glimmYing  from  afar  ; 
A  beam  of  day  that  shines  for  me? 

To  save  me  from  despair. 
a  Fore-runner  of  the  sun  (1), 

It  marks  the  pilgrim's  way  ; 
I'll  gaze  upon  it  while  I  run, 

And  watch  the  rising  day. 


■M 


IX.  Encouragement. 

Y  soul  is  beset 
With  grief  and  dismay. 

I  owe  a  vast  debt 

And  nothing  can  pay  : 

I  must  go  to  prison, 

Unless  that  dear  Lord, 

Who  dy'd  and  is  risen, 

His  pity  afford. 
J  The  death  that  he  dy'd, 

The  blood  that  he  spilt, 

To  sinners  apply'd, 

Discharge  from  all  guilt ; 

This  great  Intercessor 

Can  give,  if  he  please, 

The  vilest  transgressor 

Immediate  release. 
i  When  nail'd  to  the  tree, 

He  answer'd  the  pray'r 

Of  one  who  like  me, 

Was  nigh  to  despair  (2)  $ 

He  did  not  upbraid  him 

With  all  he  had  done, 

But  instantly  made  him, 

A  saint  and  a  son. 
(I)  Psalm,  cxxx.  6.  (2)  Luke  xxiii.  43 


Hy.  X.  SEEKING,  &c.  3$$ 

4  The  jailor,  I  read, 

A  pardon  received  (2) 
And  how  was  he  freed  ? 
He  only  believM  : 
His  case  mine  resembled, 
Like  me  he  was  foul, 
Like  me  too  he  trembled, 
But  faith  made  him  whole. 

5  Though  Saul  in  bis 'youth,. 
To  madness  enrag'd  ; 
Against  the  Lord's  truth, 
And  people  engag'd  ; 
Yet  Jesus  the  Saviour, 
Whom  long  he  revil'd  (3)5 
Received  him  to  favour 
And  made  him  a  child. 

6  A  foe  to  all  good, 

In  wickedness  skill'd,. 

Manasseh,  with  blood, 

Jerusalem  fill'd  (4)  ;_  & 

In  evil  long  harden'd, 

The  Lord  he  defy'd, 

Yet  he  too  was  pardon'd, 

"When  mercy  he  cry'd. 

7  Of  sinners  the  chief, 
And  viler  than  all, 

The  jailor  or  thief,  i 

Manasseh  or  Saul : 

Since  they  were  forgiv'n 

Why  should  I  despair 

While  Christ  is  in  heav'n 

And  still  answers  pray'r  ? 

X.   The  waiting  souL 

1   T>  REATHE  from  the  gentle  south,0  Lord? 
JD  And  cheer  me  from  the  Norch  ! 

(2)  Acts  xvi.  31.  (3)  1  Tim.  i.  16, 

(4)  Chron.  xxxiii.  12, 13. 


260  SEEKING,  &c.  Bk.  III. 

Blow  on  the  treasures  of  thy  word, 
And  call  the  spices  forth  ! 

2  I  wish,  thou  know'st,  to  be  resign'd, 

And  wait  with  patient  hope  ; 
But  hope  delay'd  fatigues  the  mind, 
And  drinks  the  spirits  up. 

3  Help  me  to  reach  the  distant  goal, 

Confirm  my  feeble  knee  ; 
Pity  the  sickness  of  a  soul 
That  faints  for  love  of  thee. 

4  Cold  as  I  feel  this  heart  of  mine, 

Yet  since  I  feel  it  so  ; 
It  yields  some  hope  of  life  divine 
Within,  however  low. 

5  I  seem  forsaken  and  alone, 

I  hear  the  lion  roar; 
And  every  door  is  shut  but  one, 
And  that  is  mercy's  door. 

6  There,  till  the  dear  deliv'rer  come 

I'll  wait  with  humble  pray'r  ; 
And  when  he  calls  his  exile  home, 
The  Lord  shall  find  him  there. 

XI.   The  E 'fort. 

1  S^i  HEER  up,  my  soul,  there  is  a  mercy  seat 

V_y    Sprinkled  with  blood,  where  Jesus  an- 
swers pray'r  ; 
There  humbly  cast  thyself  beneath  his  feet, 
For  never  needy  sinner  ptrish'd  there. 

2  Lord,  I  am  come,  thy  promise  is  my  plea, 
Without  thy  word  1  durst  not  venture  nigh  ; 
B  Jt  thou  hast  call'd  the  burden'd  soul  to  thee, 
A  weary  burden'd  soul.  O  Lord,  am  1 ! 

3  Bow'd  down  beneath  a  heavy  load  ol  sin, 
By  Satan's  fierce  temptations  sorely  prest, 


Hy.  12.  SEEKING,  &c.  26i 

Beset  without,  and  full  of  fears  within, 
Trembling  and  faint  I  come  to  thee  for  rest. 

4  Be  thou  my  refuge,  Lord,  my  hiding-place? 
I  know  no  force  can  tear  me  from  thy  side  * 
XJnmov'd  I  then  may  all  accusers  face, 
And  answer  ev'ry  charge,with  "  Jesus  dy'd.'* 

5  Yes,  thou  didst  weep,  and  bleed,  and  groan, 

and  die,       "•> 
Well  hast  thou  known  what  fierce  tempta- 

•  tions  mean  ; 
Such  was  thy  love  and  now  enthronM  on  high^ 
The  same  compassions  in  thy  bosom  reign. 

6  Lord  give  me  faith — he  hears — what  grace 

is  this  ! 
Dry  up  thy  tears,  my  soul,  and  cease  to  grieve; 
He  shews  me  what  he  did,  and  who  he  is, 
I  must,  I  will,  I  can,  I  do  believe. 

XII.   The  effort — in  another  Measure* 

1  A    PPROACH,  my  soul,  the  mercy-seat 
X\    Where  Jesus  answers  pray'r  ; 
There  humbly  fall  before  his  feet, 

For  none  can  perish  there. 

2  Thy  promise  is  my  only  plea, 

With  this  I  venture  nigh  ; 
Thou  callest  burden'd  souls  to  thee. 
And  such,  O  Lord,  am  I. 

3  Bow'd  down  beneath  a  load  of  sin, 

By  Satan  sorely  prest ; 
By  wars  without,  and  fears  within, 
I  come  to  thee  for  rest. 

4  Be  thou  my  shield  and  hiding-place. 

That,  shelter'd  near  thy  side, 
I  may  my  fierce  accuser  face, 
And  tell  him,  "  Thou  hast  dy'cL" 


262  SEEKING,  &c.  Bk.  IU. 

5  Oh  wondrous  love  !  to  bleed  and  die, 

To  bear  the  cross  and  shame  ; 
That  guilty  sinners,  such  as  I, 
Might  plead  thy  gracious  name. 

6  "  Poor  tempest-tossed  soul,  be  still, 

My  promis'd  grace  receive  :" 
?Tis  Jesus  speaks — I  must,  I  will, 
I  can,  I  do  believe. 

XIII.     Seeking  the  Beloved, 

1  T^O  those  who  know  the  Lord,  I  speak, 

A     Is  my  beloved  near  ? 
The  bridegroom  of  my  soul  I  seek, 
Oh  !  when  will  he  appear  ! 

2  Though  once  a  man  of  grief  and  shame, 

Yet  now  he  fills  a  throne  > 
And  bears  the  greatest,  sweetest  name} 
That  earth  or  heav'n  have  known. 
S  Grace  flies  before,  and  love  attends 
His  steps  where'er  he  goes  ; 
The'  none  can  see  him  but  his  friends, 
And  they  were  once  his  foes. 
4  He  speaks — obedient  to  his  call 
Our  warm  affections  move  : 
Did  he  but  shine  alike  on  all 
Then  all  alike  would  love. 
4  Then  love  in  ev'ry  heart  would  reign 
And  war  would  cease  to  roar  ; 
And  cruel,  and  blood-thirsty  men, 
Would  thirst  for  blood  no  more. 
§   Such  Jesus  is,  and  such  his  grace, 
Oh  mav  he  shine  on  you  !  (1) 
And  tell  him,  when  you  see  his  face., 
I  long  to  see  him  too. 

(1)  Cant.  v.  8.. 


Hy.  14.  SEEKING,    &c.  363 

XIV.  Rest  for  -weary  Souls, 

1  TPV  OES  the  gospel-word  proclaim, 
JL/    Rest,  for  those  who  weary  be  :    (1) 
Then,  my  soul,  put  in  thy  claim, 

Sure  that  promise  speaks  to  thee  : 
Marks  of  grace  I  cannot  show, 
All  polluted  is  my  best ; 
Yet  I  weary  am  I  know, 
And  the  weary  long  for  rest. 

2  Burden'd  with  a  load  of  sin, 
Harassed  with  tormenting  doubt, 
Hourly  conflicts  from  within, 
Hourly  crosses  from  without  : 
All  my  little  strength  is  gone, 
Sink  I  must  without  supply  : 
Sure  upon  the  earth  is  none 
Can  more  weary  be  than  I. 

3  In  the  ark  the  weary  dove  (2) 
Found  a  welcome  resting-place  ; 
Thus  my  spirit  longs  to  prove 
Rest  in  Christ,  the  ark  of  grace  : 
Tempest-toss'd  I  long  have  been, 
And  the  flood  increases  fast ; 
Open,  Lord,  and  take  me  in, 
Till  the  storm  be  overpast. 

i  Safely  lodg'd  within  thy  breast, 
What  a  wond'rous  change  I  find  : 
Now  I  know  thy  promis'd  rest 
Can  compose  a  troubled  mind  : 
You,  that  weary  are,  like  me, 
Hearken  to  the  gospel-call  ; 
To  the  ark  of  refuge  flee, 
Jesus  will  receive  you  all ! 

(1)  Matt.  xi.  28.  (2)  Gen.  viii.  6. 


264  CONFLICT.  Bk.  Ill 

SIMILAR  HYMNS. 

Book  I.  Hymn  45,  69,  82,  83,  84,  96. 
Book  II.  Hymn  29. 

III.  CONFLICT. 

XV.  (c)  Light  shining  oat  of  Darkness, 

1  /^i  OD  moves  in  a  mysterious  way, 
vJ   His  wonders  to  perform  ; 

He  plants  his  footsteps  in  the  sea, 
And  rides  upon  the  storm. 

2  Deep  in  unfathomable  mines, 

Of  never-failing  skill ; 
He  treasures  up  his  bright  designs, 
And  works  his  sov'reign  will. 

3  Ye  fearful  saints,  fresh  courage  take, 

The  clouds  ye  so  much  dread 
Are  big  with  mercy,  and  shall  break 
In  blessings  on  your  head. 

4  Judge  not  the  Lord  by  feeble  sense, 

But  trust  him  for  his  grace  ; 
Behind  a  frowning  providence, 
He  hides  a  smiling  face. 

5  His  purposes  will  ripen  fast, 

Unfolding  ev'ry  hour  ; 
The  bud  may  have  a  bitter  taste, 
But  sweet  will  be  the  flow'r. 

6  Blind  unbelief  is  sureto  err  (l) 

And  scan  his  work  in  vain, 
God  is  his  own  interpreter, 
And  he  will  make  it  plain. 

(1)  Johnxiii.r. 


Hy.  16.  CONFLICT,  265 

XVI.    (c)  Welcome  Cross, 

1  ,'"~T^IS  my  happiness  below 

A     Not  to  live  without  the  cross ; 
But  the  Saviour's  pow'r  to  know, 
Sanctifying  ev'ry  loss. 
Trials  must  and  will  befal ; 
But  with  humble  faith  to  see 
Love  inscrib'd  upon  them  all, 
This  is  happiness  to  me. 

2  God,  in  Israel,  sows  the  seeds 
Of  affliction,  pain,  and  toil ; 

These  spring  up  and  choak  the  weeds 
"Which  would  else  o'erspread  the  soil  4 
Trials  make  the  promise  sweet, 
Trials  give  new  life  to  pray'r ; 
Trials  bring  me  to  his  feet, 
Lay  me  low,  and  keep  me  there« 

3  Did  I  meet  no  trials  here, 
No  chastisement  by  the  way,; 
Might  I  not,  with  reason,  fear, 
I  should  prove  a  cast-away: 
Bastards  may  escape  the  rod  (l) 
Sunk  in  earthly,  vain  delight : 
But  the  true  born  child  of  God  ; 
Must  not,  would  not,  if  he  might. 

XVII.  (c)    Affliction  sanctified  by  the  Word* 

HOW  I  love  thy  holy  word, 
Thy  gracious  covenant,  O  Lord  ! 

It  guides  me  in  the  peaceful  way, 

I  think  upon  it  all  the  day. 

What  are  the  mines  of  shining  Wealth, 

The  strength  of  youth,  the  bloom  of  health  ? 

(1)  Heb.  xii.  8. 

z 


o 


266  CONFLICT.  Bk.  III. 

What  are  all  joys  compar'd  with  those 
Thine  everlasting  word  bestows  ! 
.3  Long  unafflicted,  undismayed, 
In  pleasure's  path  secure  I  stray 'd  ; 
Thou  mad's*  me  feel  thy  chastening  rod  (l), 
And  straight  I  turn'd  unto  my  God. 

4  What  though  it  piercM  my  fainting  heart, 
I  bless  thine  hand  that  caus'd  the  smart  ; 
It  taught  my  tears  awhile  to  flow, 

But  sav'd  me  from  eternal  woe* 

5  Oh  !  had'st  thou  left  me  unchastis'ds 
Thy  precepts  I  had  still  despis'd  ; 
And  still  the  snare  in  secret  laid, 
Had  my  unwary  feet  betray'd. 

6  I  love  thee,  therefore,  O  my  God, 
And  breathe  towards  thy  dear  abode  ; 
Wrhere  in  thy  presence  fully  blest, 
Thy  chosen  saints  for  ever  rest. 

XYIII.   (c)   Temptation. 

1  *T*HE  billows  swell,  the  winds  are  higii 

X     Clouds  overcast  my  wintry  sky  ; 
Out  of  the  depths  to  thee  I  call, 
My  fears  are  great,  my  strength  is  small. 

2  O  Lord,  the  pilot's  part  perform, 

And  guide  and  guard  me  through  the  storm; 
Defend  me  from  each  threading  ill, 
Control  the  waves,  say,  "  Peace,  be  still." 

3  Amidst  the  roaring  of  the  sea, 

My  soul  still  hangs  her  hope  on  .thee; 
Thy  constant  love,  thy  faithful  care, 
Is  all  that  saves  me  from  despa.ir. 
4f  Dangers  of  ev'ry  shape  and  name, 
Attends  the  follow'rs  of  the  Lamb, 

(1)  Psalm  cxix.  71. 


If*.  19.  CONFLICT.  26r 

Who  leave  the  world's  deceitful  shore, 
And  leave  it  to  return  no  more. 
5  Though  tempest-toss'd,  and  half  a  wreck? 
My  Saviour  through  the  floods  I  seek  ; 
Let  neither  winds,  nor  stormy  rain, 
Force  back  my  shatier'd  bark  again. 

XIX.  (c)  Looking  upwards  hi  a  storm. 

1  pODof  my  life,  to  thee  I  call, 
VT   Afflicted  at  thy  feet  I  fail  (1)  ; 

When  the  great  water-floods  prevail, 
Leave  not  my  trembling  heart  to  fail  ! 

2  Friend  of  the  friendless  and  the  faint ; 
Where  should  I. lodge  my  deep  complaint  I 
Where  but  with  thee,  whose  open  door 
Invites  the  helpless  and  the  poor  ! 

S  Did  ever  mourner  plead  with  thee, 
And  thou  refuse  that  mourner's  plea  I 
Does  not  the  word  still  fix'd  remain, 
That  none  shall  seek  thy  face  in  vain  2 

4  That  were  a  grief,  I  could  not  bear, 
Didst  thou  not  hear  and  answer  pray'r ; 
But  a  pray'r-hearing,  answering  God, 
Supports  me  under  ev'ry  load. 

5  Fair  is  the  lot  that's  cast  for  me ; 
I  have  an  advocate  with  thee ; 
They  whom  the  world  caresses  most, 
Have  no  such  privilege  to  boast. 

6  Poor  though  I  am,  despis'd,  forgot  (2), 
Yet  God,  my  God,  forgets  me  not  j 
And  he  is  safe,  and  must  succeeds, 

For  whom  the  Lord  vouchsafes  to  plead? 

(1)  Psalm  cxix.  15.        (2)  Psalm  xl.  17. 


268  CONFLICT.  Bk.  Ill; 

XX.    (c)   The  Valley  of  the  Shadow  of  Death, 

1  ~\/f  Y  soul  is  sad,  and  much  dismay'd  ; 
j\ji    See,  Lord,  what  legions  of  my  foes, 
With  fierce  Apollyon  at  their  head, 

My  heavenly  pilgrimage  oppose  ! 

2  See,  from  the  ever-burning  lake, 
How  like  a  smoky  cloud  they  rise  ! 
With  horrid  blasts  my  soul  they  shake, 
"With  storms  of  blasphemies  and  lies. 

3  Their  fiery  arrows  reach  the  mark  (1)  ; 
My  throbbing  heart  with  anguish  tear  ; 
Each  lights  upon  a  kindred  spark, 
And  finds  abundant  fuel  there. 

4t  I  hate  the  thought  that  wrongs  the  Lord  :. 
Oh  !  I  would  drive  it  from  my  breast, 
With  thy  own  sharp  two-edged  sword, 
Far  as  the  east  is  from  the  west. 

6  Come  then,  and  chase  the  cruel  host, 
Heal  the  deep  wounds  I  have  receiv'd  ? 
Nor  let  the  pow'rs  of  darkness  boast 
That  I  am  foil'd,  and  thou  art  griev'd  ! 

XXI.   The  Storm  hushed* 

I   ,ripIS  past — the  dreadful  stormy  night 
A     Is  gone  with  all  its  fears  ! 
And  now  I  see  returning  light, 
The  Lord,  my  Sun,  appears. 

2  The  tempter  who,  but  lately  said, 

I  soon  shall  be  his  prey  ; 
Has  heard  my  Saviour's  voice,  and  fled> 
With  shame  and  grief  away, 

3  Ah!  Lord,  since  thou  didst  hide  thy  face; 

What  has  my  soul  endur'd  r 

(VI  Eph.  vi.  16, 


Hy.  2%.  CONFLICTS.  26S 

But  now  'tis  past,  I  feel  thy  grace, 
And  all  my  wounds  are  curM. 

4  Ohwond'rous  change  !  but  just  before 

Despair  beset  me  round  ; 
I  heard  the  lion's  horrid  roar, 
And  trembled  at  the  sound. 

5  Before  corruption,  guilt,  and  fear, 

My  comforts  blasted  fell'; 
And  unbelief  discover5 d  near, 
The  dreadful  depths  of  hell. 

6  But  Jesus  pity'd  my  distress, 

He  heard  my  feeble  cry  ; 
Rtveal'd  his  blood  and  righteousness, 
And  brought  salvation  nigh. 
*}  Beneath  the  banner  of  his  love, 
I  now  secure  remain  ; 
The  tempter  frets,  but  dares  not  move 
To  break  my  peace  again. 
8  Lord,  since  thou  thus  hast  broke  my  bands 
And  set  the  captive  free  ; 
X  would  devote  my  tongue,  my  hands, 
My  heart,  my  all  to  thee. 

XXII.  Help  in  the  Time  of  Need. 

1  T  TNLESS  the  Lord  had  been  my  stay, 
CJ     (With  trembiingjoy  my  soul  may  say} 

My  cruel  foe  had  gain'd  his  end  : 
But  he  appear' d  for  my  relief. 
And  Satan  sees,  with  shame  and  grief,. 

That  I  have  an  almighty  Friend. 

2  Oh,  'twas  a  dark  and'  trying  hour, 
When  h\rras-.'d  by  the  te-tnpter's  pow'r, 

I  felt  my  strongest  hopes  decline  .' 
You  only  who- have  known  his  arts^ 
You  only  who  have  felt  his  darts, 

Can  pity  such  a  case  as  mine* 
%  2 


270  CONFLICT.  Bk.  IIL 

3  Loud  in  my  ears  a  charge  he  read, 
(My  conscience  witness'd  all  he  said) 

My  long  black  list  of  outward  sin  ; 
Then  bringing  forth  my  heart  to  view  ; 
Too  well  what's  hidden  there  he  knew, 

He  shew'd  me  ten  times  worse  within* 

4  'Tis  all  too  true,  my  soul  reply'd, 
liut  I  remember  Jesus  dy'd, 

And  now  he  fills  a  throne  of  grace  ; 
I'll  go,  as  1  have  done  before, 
His  mercy  I  may  still  implore, 

I  have  his  promise,  M  Seek  my  face." 

5  But  as  sudden  fogs  arise, 

The  trees  and  hills,  the  sun  and  skies, 

Are  all  at  once  conceal'd  from  view  ; 
So  clouds  of  horror  black  as  night, 
By  Satan  rais'd,  him  from  my  sight, 
Trie  throne  of  grace  and  promise  too. 

6  Then,  while  beset  with  guilt  and  fear, 
He  try'd  to  urge  me  to  despair, 

He  try'd,  and  he  almost  prevaiFd  ; 
But  Jesus  by  a  heav'nly  ray, 
Drove  clouds,  and  guilt,  and  fear  away, 

And  all  the  tempter's  malice  fati'd. 

XXIII.  (c)  Peace  after  a  storm, 

.1   TI7HEN  darkness  long   has    veil'd  my 
VV  mind, 

And  smiling  day  once  more  appears, 
Then,  my  Redeemer,  then  I  find 
The  folly  of  my  doubts  and  fears. 

3  Straight  I  upbraid  my  wand'ring  heart, 
And  blush  that  I  should  ever  be 
Thus  prone  to  act  so  base  a  part, 
Or  harbour  one  hard  thought  of  thee  \ 


Hy/24.  CONFLICT.  271 

3  Oh  !  let  me  then  at  length  be  taught 
What  I  am  still  so  slaw  to  learn  ; 
That  God  is  love,  and  changes  not, 
Nor  knows  the  shadow  of  a  turn. 

4  Sweet  truth,  and  easy  to  repeat. 
But  when  my  faith  is  sharply  try'd, 
I  find  myself  a  learner  yet, 
Unskilful,  weak,  and  apt  to  slide. 

3  But  O,  my  Lord,  one  look  from  thee 

Subdues  the  disobedient  will ; 

l>rives  doubt  and  discontent  away. 

And  thy  rebellious  worm  is  still. 
6  Thou  art  as  ready  to  forgive, 

As  I  am  ready  to  repine  ; 

Thou  therefore  all  the  praise  receive  p 

Be  shame,  and  self-abhorrence  mine» 

XXIV.   (c)  Mourning  and  Longing* 

1  'T^HE  Saviour  hides  his  face  ? 

A     My  spirit  thirsts  to  prove 
KenewM  supplies  of  pard'ning  grace? 
And  never  failing  love. 

2  The  favoured  souls  who  know 

What  glories  shine  in  him,. 
Pant  for  his  presence,  as  the  roe 
Pants  for  the  living  stream ! 

3  What  trifles  teaze  me  now  I 

They  swarm  like  summer  flies?. 
They  cleave  to  every  thing  I  do, 

And  swim  before  my  eyes. 
4f  How  dull  the  sabbath-day, 

Without  the  sabbath's  Lord  "J 
Hew  toilsome  then  to  sing  and  pray. 

And  wait  upon  the  word  ! 

5  Of  all  the  truths  I  hear, 

How  few  delight  my  taste  ! 


272  CONFLICT.  Bk.  III. 

I  glean  a  berry  here  and  there, 
But  mourn  the  vintage  past* 

6  Yet  let  me  (as  I  ought) 

Still  hope  to  be  supply'd ; 
No  pleasure  else  is  worth  a  thought. 
Nor  shall  I  be  deny'd  ; 

7  Though  lam  but  a  worm, 

Unworthy  of  his  care  ; 
The  Lord  will  my  desire  perform, 
And  grant  me  all  my  pray'r. 

XXV.  Rejoice  the  soul  of  thy  servant* 

1  TITHEN  my  pray'rs  are  a  burden  and 

No  wonder  I  little  receive  ; 

0  Lord,  make  me  willing  to  ask, 
Since  thou  art  so  ready  to  give  : 
Although  I  am  bought  with  thy  blood, 
And  all  thy  salvation  is  mine  ; 

At  a  distance  from  thee  my  chief  good., 

1  wander,  and  languish,  and  pine. 

2  Of  thy  goodness  of  old  when  I  read, 
To  those  who  were  sinners  like  me, 
Why  may  I  not  wrestle  and  plead, 
"With  them  a  partaker  to  be  ? 

Thine  arm  is  not  shortened  since  then,, 
And  those  who  believe  in  thy  name, 
Ever  find  thou  art  Yea  and  Amen, 
Through  all  generations  the  same. 

3  While  my  spirit  within  me  is  prest 
With  sorrow,  temptation,  and  fear, 
Like  John  I  would  flee  to  thy  breast  (l) 
And  pour  my  complaints  in  thine  eau : 

(1)  Johrvxiii.  25. 


Hy..26.  CONFLICT  273 

How  happy  and  favoured  was  he, 
Who  could  in  thy  bosom  repose  ! 
Might  this  favour  be  granted  to  me7 
I'd  smile  at  the  rage  of  my  foes. 

4  I  have  heard  of  thy  wonderful  name, 
How  great  and  exalted  thou  art ; 
But  ah  !  I  confess  to  my  shame, 

It  faintly  impresses  my  heart  ; 
The  beams  of  thy  glory  display, 
As  Peter  once  saw  thee  appear ; 
That  transported  like  him  I  may  say, 
"  It  is  good  for  my  soul  to  be  here.   (2)n 

5  "What  a  sorrow  and  weight  didst  thou  feel, 
When  nail'd,  for  my  sake,  to  the  tree  ! 
My  heart  sure  is  harder  than  steel. 

To  feel  no  more  sorrow  for  thee  i 
Oh  let  me  with  Thomas  descry 
The  wounds  in  thy  hands  and  thy  side  ; 
And  have  feelings  like  his  when  I  cry, 
"  My  God  and  my  Saviour  has  dy'd".  (3) 
S  But  if  thou  hast  appointed  me  still 
To  wrestle,  and  suffer,  and  fight  f 

0  make  me  resign'dto  thy  will, 

For  all  thine  appointments  are  right : 
This  mercy,  at  least,  I  entreat, 
That  knowing  how  vile  I  have  been, 

1  with  Mary,  may  wait  at  thy  feet  (4), 
And  weep  o'er  the  pardon  of  sim 

XXVI.   (c)  Self -acquaintance* 

1    TT\  EAR  Lord  I  accept  a  sinful  heart,. 
JLr    Which  of  itself  complains  ; 
And  mourns,  with  much  and  frequent  smarts 
The  evil  it  contains. 

(2)  Matt.xvii,  4.  (3)  John  xx.  28. 

(4j  Luke- vii.  38.     • 


274  CONFLICT.  Bk.   Ill 

2  The  fiery  seeds  of  anger  lurk, 

Which  often  hurt  my  frame  ; 
And  wait  but  for  the  tempter's  work, 
To  fan  them  to  a  flame. 

3  Legality  holds  out  a  bribe 

To  purchase  life  from  thee  ; 
And  discontent  would  fain  prescribe 
How  thou  shalt  deal  with  me. 

4  While  unbelief  withstands  thy  grace. 

And  puts  the  mercy  by  ; 
Presumption  with  a  brow  of  brass, 
Says,  u  Give  me,  or  die." 

5  How  eager  are  my  thoughts  to  roam 

In  quest  of  what  we  love  ! 
But  ah  !  when  duty  calls  them  home 
How  heavily  they  move  ! 

6  O  cleanse  me  in  a  Saviours  blood, 

Transform  me  by  thy  pow'r, 
And  make  me  thy  belov'd  abode, 
And  let  me  rove  no  more. 

XXVII.  Bitter  and  stveet. 

1  J7~  INDLE,  Saviour,  in  my  heart, 
J\.   A  flame  of  love  divine  ; 

Hear,  hear,  for  mine  I  trust  thou  art, 

And  sure  I  would  be  thine  :   . 
If  my  soul  has  felt  thy  grace, 
If  to  me  thy  name  is  known  ; 
Why  should  trifiVs  fill  the  place, 

Hue  to  thyself  alone. 

2  'Tis  a  strange  mysterious  life 

1  live  from  day  to  day  ; 
Light  and  darkness,  peace  and  strife; 

Bear  an  alternate  sway  : 
When  I  think  the  battle  won, 
I  have  to  fight  it  o'er  again; 


3Iy.  28.  CONFLICT.  275 

"When  I  say  I'm  overthrown, 

Relief  I  soon  obtain. 
'3   Often  at  the  mercy-seat, 

While  calling  on  thy  name  : 
Swarms  of  evil  thoughts  I  meet, 

Wrhich  fill  my  soul  with  shame  ; 
Agitated  in  my  mind, 
Like  a  feather  in  the  air  ; 
Can  I  thus  a  blessing  find  ? 

My  soul,  can  this  be  pray'r  ? 
4  But  when  Christ,  my  Lord  and  Friend, 

Is  pleas'dto  shew  hispow'r; 
All  at  once  my  troubles  end, 

And  I've  a  golden  hour  ; 
Then  I  see  his  smiling  face, 
Feel  the  pledge  of  joys  to  come  ', 
Often,  Lord,  repeat  his  grace 

Till  thou  shalt  call  me  home. 

XXVIII.  (c)  Prayer  for  patience* 

1  T    ORD,  who  hast  suffer'd  all  for  me, 
1  4   My  peace  and  pardon  to  procure  j 

The  lighter  cross  I  bear  for  thee, 
Help  me  with  patience  to  endure. 

2  The  storm  of  loud  repining  hush, 
I  would  in  humble  silence  mourn  ; 

Why  should  th'  unburnt,  tho'  burning  bush, 
Be  angry  as  the  crackling  thorn  ? 

3  Man  should  not  faint  at  thy  rebuke, 
Like  Joshua  falling  on  his  face  (l), 
"When  the  curs'd  thing  that  Achan  took, 
Brought  Israel  into  just  disgrace. 

4  Perhaps  some  golden  wedge  suppress'd, 
Some  secret  sin  offends  my  God ; 

(1)  Joshua  vii.  10,  11, 


276  CONFLICT.  Bk.  111. 

Perhaps  the  Babylonish  vest, 
Self-righteousness,  provokes  the  rod. 

5  Ah  !  where  I  buffeted  all  day, 

Mock'd,  crown'd  with  thorns,  and  spit  upon; 
I  yet  should  have  no  right  to  say, 
My  great  distress  is  mine  alone. 

6  Let  me  not  angrily  declare 

No  pain  was  ever  sharp  like  mine  ; 
Nor  murmur  at  the  cross  I  bear, 
But  rather  weep,  rememb'ring  thine. 

XXIX.   (c)  Sab?nission. 

1  iTX   LORD,  my  best  desire  fulfil, 

\J  And  help  me  to  resign, 
Life,  health,  and  comfort  to  thy  will, 
And  make  thy  pleasure  mine  ; 

2  Why  should  I  shrink  at  thy  command, 

Whose  love  forbids  my  fears  ? 
Or  tremble  at  the  gracious  hand 
That  wipes  away  my  tears  ? 

3  No,  let  me  rather  freely  yield 

What  most  I  prize  to  thee  ! 
Who  never  hast  a  good  withheld, 

Or  wilt  withhold  from  me. 
4-  Thy  favour,  all  my  journey  through, 

Thou  art  engag'd  to  grant ; 
What  else  I  want,  or  think  I  do, 

'Tis  better  still  to  want.  , 

5  Wisdom  and  mercy  guide  my  war, 

Shall  I  resist  them  both  ? 
A  poor  blind  creature  of  a  day, 
And  crush'd  before  the  moth  ! 

6  But  ah  !  my  inward  spirit  cries, 

Still  bind  me  to  thy  sway ; 
Else  the  next  cloud  that  veils  my  skies, 
Drives  all  these  thoughts  away. 


Hit.  30.  CONFLICT.  2-77 


XXX.  Why  should  I  complain. 

i   TtT'HEN  my  Saviour,  my  Shepherd  is 
VV  near, 

How  quickly  my  sorrows  depart! 
New  beauties  around  me  appear, 
New  spirits  enliven  my  heart ; 
His  presence  gives  peace  to  my  soul, 
And  Satan  insults  me  in  vain  ; 
"While  my  shepherd  his  pow'r  controuls, 
I  think  1  no  more  shall  complain. 

2  But  alas  !  what  a  change  do  I  find,  [sight, 
When  my  Shepherd  withdraws  from  my 
My  fears  all  return  from  my  mind. 

My  day  is  soon  chang'd  into  night : 
Then  Satan  his  efforts  renews, 
To  vex  and  ensnare  me  again  ; 
All  my  pleasing  enjoyments  I  lose, 
And  can  only  lament  and  complain. 

3  By  these  changes  I  often  pass  through 

I  am  taught  my  own  weakness  to  know ; 
I  am  taught  what  my  shepherd  can  do? 
And  how  much  to  his  mercy  I  owe  : 
It  is  he  that  supports  me  through  all, 
When  I  faint  he  revives  me  again  ; 
He  attends  to  my  prayer  when  I  call, 
And  bids  me  no  longer  complain. 

4  Wherefore  then  should 'I  murmur  and  grieve? 
Since  my  Shepherd  is  always  the  same, 
And  has  promised  he  never  will  leave  (1) 
The  soul  that  confide"s  in  his  name  : 

To  relieve  me  from  all  that  I  fear, 
He  was  buffeted,  tempted,  and  slain  ; 
And  at  iength  he  will  surely  appear, 
Though  he  leaves  me  a  while  to  complain  ; 

(1)  Jer.  i.  19. 

Aa 


278  CONFLICT.  13k.  III. 

5  While  1  dwell  in  an  enemy's  land, 
Can  I  hope  to  be  always  in  peace  ? 
'Tis  enough  that  my  Shepherd's  at  hand, 
And  that  shortly  this  warfare  will  cease  ; 
For  ere  long  he  will  bid  me  remove  (l) 
From  this  region  of  sorrow  and  pain, 
To  abide  in  his  presence  above. 
And  then  I  no  more  shall  complain. 

XXXI.     Return  0  Lord,  hoxv  long. 

1  TJ  ETURN  to  bless  my  waiting  eyes, 
XV  And  cheer  my  mourning  heart,  O  Lord 
Without  thee  all  beneath  the  skies, 

No  real  pleasure  can  afford. 

2  When  thy  lov'd  presence  meets  my  sight, 
It  softens  care  and  sweetens  toil  ; 

The  sun  shines  forth  with  double  light, 
The  whole  creation  wears  a  smile. 

3  Upon  thine  arm  of  love  I  rest, 
Thy  gracious  voice  forbids  my  fear  : 
No  storms  disturb  my  peaceful  breast, 
No  foes  assault  when  thou  art  near. 

4  But  ah  !  since  thou  hast  been  away, 
Nothing  but  trouble  have  I  known ; 
And  Satan  marks  me  for  his  prey, 
Because  he  sees  me  left  alone. 

■6  My  sun  is  hid,  my  comforts  lo6t, 

My  graces  droop,  my  sins  revive  ; 

Distress'd,  dismay'd,  aud  tempest-toss'd, 

My  soul  is  only  just  alive ! 
6  Lord,  hear  my  cry,  and  come  again! 

Put  all  mine  enemies  to  shame, 

And  ltt  them  see  'tis  not  in  vain 

That  I  have  trusted  in  thy  name. 

(1)  Rev.  ii.  10. 


Hy.  32.  CONFLICT.  27$ 

XXXII.     Cast  dozvn,  but  not  destroyed. 

1    rpHOUGH  sore  beset  with  guilt  and  fear, 
JL    I  cannot,  dare  not,  quke  despair  ; 
If  I  must  perish,  would  the  Lord 
Have  taught  my  heart  to  love  his  word  ? 
Would  he  have  giv'n  my  eyes  to  see   (l) 
My  danger,  and  my  remedy  $ 
Reveal'd  his  name  and  bid  me  pray, 
Had  he  resoiv'd  to  say  me  nay  ? 

^  No— though  cast  down,  I  am  not  slain 
I  fall,  but  I  shall  rise  again  (2)  ; 
The  present,  Satan,  is  thy  hour, 
But  Jesus  shall  controul  thy  pow'r : 
His  love  will  plead  for  my  relief, 
He  hears  my  groans,  he  sees  my  grief; 
Nor  will  he  suffer  thee  to  boast, 
A  soul,  that  sought  his  help,  was  lost, 

3  *Tis  true  I  have  unfaithful  been, 
And  griev'd  his  Spirit  by  my  sin; 
Yet  still  his  mercy  he'll  reveal, 
And  my  wounds  and  follies  heal ; 
Abounding  sin,  I  must  confess  (3), 
But  more  abounding  is  his  grace  ; 
He  once  vouchsafed  for  me  to  bleed, 
And  now  he  lives,  my  cause  to  plead? 

4  I'll  cast  myself  before  his  feet, 
I  see  him  on  his  mercy-seat ; 
('Tis  sprinkled  with  atoning  blood) 
There  sinners  find  access  to  God  : 
Ye  burden'd  souls  approach  with  me. 
And  make  thy  Saviour's  name  your  plea£ 
Je^us  will  pardon  all  who  come, 

And  strike  our  fierce  accusers  dumb. 

(1)  Judges  xiii.  23.        (2)  Micah  vii.  & 
^3)  Rom.  v.  20, 


^80  CONFLICT.  Bk.  Ill, 

XXXIII.       The  benighted  Traveller, 

1  Tf  ORE  ST  beasts,  that  live  by  prey, 
A      Seldom  shew  themselves  by  day  ; 
But  when  the  day-light  is  withdrawn  (l), 
Then  rove  and  roar  until  the  dawn. 

2  Who  can  tell  the  traveller's  fears, 
When  their  horrid  yells  he  hears  ? 
Terror  almost  stops  his  breath, 
While  each  step  he  looks  for  death. 

3  Thus  when  Jesus  is  in  view, 
Cheerful  I  my  way  pursue  ; 
Walking  by  my  Saviour's  light, 
Nothing  can  my  soul  affright. 

4  But  when  he  forbears  to  shine, 
Soon  the  traveller's  case  is  mine ; 
Lost,  benighted,  struck  with  dread, 
W^hat  a  painful  path  I  tread. 

3  Then  my  soul  with  terror  hears, 
Worse  than  lions,  wolves  or  bears,^ 
Roaring  loud  in  ev'rv  part. 
Through  the  forest  of  my  heart.. 

6  Wrath,  impatience,  envy,  pride, 
Satan  and  his  host  beside. 
Press  around  me  to  devour  ; 
How  can  I  escape  their  pow'r  ? 

7  Gracious  Lord,  afford  me  light, 
Put  these  beasts  of  prey  to  flight ; 
Let  thy  power  and  love  be  shewn  (2} 
Save  me,  for  I  am  thine  own. 


■w 


XXXIV.     The  Prisoner, 

HEN  the  poor  pris'ner  thro'  a  grate 
Sees  others  walk  at  large ; 


(1)  Psaim  civ.  20.        (g)  Psalm  cxix,  04- 


Hy.  35.  CONFLICT.  281 

How  does  he  mourn  his  lonely  state, 
And  long  for  a  discharge  ? 
2  Thus  I,  confin'd  in  unbelief, 
My  loss  of  freedom  mourn  ; 
And  spend  my  hours  in  fruitless  grief, 
Until  my  Lord  return. 

5  The  beam  of  day  which  pierces  through 

The  gloom  in  which  I  dwell, 
Only  discloses  to  my  view, 

The  horrors  of  my  cell. 
4<  Ah  !  how  my  pensive  spirit  faints, 

To  think  uf  former  days  ! 
When  I  could  triumph  with  the  saints^ 

And  join  their  songs  of  praise  J 
a  But  now  my  joys  are  all  cut  off, 

In  prison  I  am  cast; 
And  Satan  with  a  cruel  scoff  (l) 

Says,  "  Where's  your  God  at  last?53 

6  Dear  Saviour  for  thy  mercy's  sake, 

(My  strong  my  only  plea) 
These  gates  and  bars  in  pieces  break,  (2)- 
And  set  the  pris'ner  free  ! 

7  Surely  my  soul  shall  sing  to  thee, 

For  liberty  restor'd  ; 
And  all  thy'  saints  admire  to  see 
Tne  mercies  of  the  Lord- 

XXXV.     Perplexity  relieved, 

1   J  TNCERTAIN  how  the  way  to  find 
%-J     Which  to  salvation  led  ; 
.  I  list'ned  long,  with  anxious  mind, 
To  hear  what  others  said. 
'Q  When  some  of  joys  and  comforts  told-, 
I  fear'd  that  I  was  wrong  ; 

(1)  Psalm  cxv,  2.        (2)  Psalm  xlii.  7- 
A  a  2 


282  CONFLICT.  Bk.  IO. 

For  T  was  stupid,  dead,  and  cold, 
Had  neither  joy  nor  song. 

3  The  Lord  my  lab'ring  heart  reliev'd, 

And  made  my  burden  light; 
Then  for  a  moment  I  believ'd. 
Supposing  all  was  right. 

4  Of  fierce  temptations  others  talk'd, 

Of  anguish  and  dismay  ; 
Through  what  distresses  they  had  walk'cf, 
Before  they  found  the  way. 

5  Ah  !  then  I  thought  my  hopes  were  vain, 

For  I  had  liv'd  at  ease  ! 
I  wish'd  for  all  my  fears  again, 
To  make  me  more  like  these. 

6  I  had  my  wish,  the  Lord  disclos'dy 

The  evils  of  my  heart ; 
And  left  my  naked  soul  expos'd 
To  Satan's  fiery  dart. 

7  Alas  !  "  I  now  must  give  it  up," 

I  cry'd  in  deep  despair ; 
How  could  I  dream  of  dawning  hope, 
From  what  I  cannot  bear  ! 

8  Again  my  Saviour  brought  me  aid, 

And  when  he  set  me  free, 
41  Trust  simply  on  my  word,"  he  said, 
"  And  leave  the  rest  to  me." 

XXXVI.    Prayer  answered  by  Crosses* 

1    T  ASK'D  the  Lord  that  I  might  grow 
X  In  faith,  and  love,  and  ev'ry  grace  j 
Might  more  of  his  salvation  know, 
And  seek  more  earnestly  his  face. 

9  'Twas  he  who  taught  me  thus  to  pray, 
And  he,  I  trust  has  answer'd  pray'r  ; 
But  it  has  been  in  such  a  way, 

As  almost  drove  xne  \&  despair. 


Hy.  m  CONFLICT.  293 

3  I  hop'd  that  in  some  favour'd  hour, 
At  once  he'd  answer  my  request  ; 
And  by  his  love's  constraining  pow'r, 
Subdue  my  sins,  and  give  me  rest. 

4  Instead  of  this  he  made  me  feel, 
The  hidden  evils  of  my  heart; 
And  let  the  angry  pow'rs  of  hell 
Assault  my  soul  in  ev'ry  part. 

5  TTea  more,  with  his  own  hand  he  seemTd 
Intent  to  aggravate  my  woe ; 

Cross'd  all  the  fair  designs  I  schem'd. 
Blasted  my  gourds,  and  laid  me  low. 

G  Lord,  why  is  this,  I  trembling  cry'd, 
Wilt  thou  pursue  thy  worm  to  death  ? 
«  'Tis  in  this  way,"  (the  Lord  reply'd), 
"  I  answer  pray'r  for  grace  and  faith. 

7  "  These  inward  trials  I  employ, 

From  self,  and  pride,  to  set  thee  free  ; 
And  break  thy  schemes  of  earthly  joy, 
That  thou  may'st  seek  thy  all  in  me." 

XXXVII.   Jzvill  trust  and  not  be  afraid^ 

1  |3  EGONE  unbelief, 
JO   My  Saviour  is  near. 
And  for  my  belief 

Will  surely  appear. 
By  pray'r  let  me  wrestle, 
And  he  will  perform, 
With  Christ  in  the  vessel, 
I  smile  at  the  storm. 

2  Though  dark  be  my  way, 
Since  he  is  my  guide, 
'Tis  mine  to  obey, 

'Tis  his  to  proyide; 
Though  cisterns  be  brok«n? 
And  creatures  all  fail, 


*§4  CONFLICT.  Bk.  HI. 

The  word  he  has  spokeru 
Shall  surely  prevail. 

3  His  love  in  time  past 
Forbids  me  to  think 
He'll  leave  me  at  last 
In  trouble  to  sink  ; 
Each  sweet  Ebenezer 
I  have  in  review, 

Confirms  his  good  pleasure  # 

To  help  me  qxiite  through. 

4  Determin'd  to  save, 

He  watch'd  o'er  my  path, 
"When  Satan's  blind  slave, 
I  sported  with  death; 
And  can  he  have  taught  me 
To  trust  in  his  name, 
And  thus  far  have  brought  me5 
To  put  me  to  shame  ? 
.*  Why  should  I  complain 
Of  want  or  distress, 
Temptation  or  pain  ? 
He  told  me  no  less  : 
The  heirs  of  salvation, 
I  know  from  his  word, 
Through  much  tribulation, 
Must  follow  their  Lord  (l)« 

6  How  bitter  that  cup, 
No  heart  can  conceive, 
"Which  he  drank  quite  up, 
That  sinners  might  live  ! 
His  way  was  much  rougher, 
And  darker  than  mine  ; 
Did  Jesus  thus  suffer, 
And  shall  I  n-pine  .? 

7  Since  all  that  I  meet 
Shall  work  for  my  good, 

(1)  Acts  xiv.  22 


Mr.  38.  CONFLICT.  28o 

The  bitter  is  sweet, 
The  med'cine  is  food  ; 
Though  painful  at  present, 
'Twill  cease  before  long, 
And  then,  oh  !  how  pleasant 
The  conqueror's  song  (l)  ! 

XXXVIII.  Questions  to  unbelief 1 

%  TF  to  Jesus  for  relief, 

JL    My  soul  had  fled  by  prav'r ; 
Why  should  I  give  way  to  grief, 

Or  heart-consuming  care  ? 
Are  not  all  things  in  his  hand  ? 
Has  not  his  promise  past  ? 
Will  he  then  regardless  standi 

And  let  me  sink  at  last  ? 

2  While  I  know  his  providence 

Disposes  each  event ; 
Shall  I  Judge  by  feeble  sense, 

And  .yield  to  discontent  ?  ~ 
If  he  worms  and  sparrows  feed, 
Clothe  the  grass  in  rich  array  ;  (2) 
Can  he  see  a  child  in  need, 

And  turn  his  eye  away  ? 

3  When  his  name  was  quite  unknown, 

And  sin  my  life  employ'd  ; 
Then  he  watch'd  me  as  his  own, 

Or  I  had  been  destroy'd  ; 
Now  his  mercy-seat  I  know, 
Now  by  grace  am  reconcil'd  ; 
Would  he  spare  me  while  a  foe  ;    (3) 

To  leave  me  when  a  child  ? 
4t  If  he  all  my  wants  supply'd 

When  Tdisdain'd  to  pray  : 

££)  Rem.  viii.  37.  (2)  Matt.  iv.  26.    (3)   Rom.  v.  X& 


286  CONFLICT.  Bk.  IH 

Now  his  Spirit  is  my  guide, 

How  can  he  say  me  nay  ? 
If  he  would  not  give  me  up, 
When  my  soul  against  him  fought  ; 
"Will  he  disappoint  the  hope, 

Which  he  himself  has  wrought  ? 

5  If  he  shed  his  precious  blood 

To  bring  me  to  his  fold  : 
Can  I  think  that  meaner  good  ;  (3) 

He  ever  will  withhold  ? 
Satan,  vain  is  thy  device  I 
Here  my  hopes  rest  well-assur'd, 
In  that  great  redemption  price, 

I  see  the  whole  secur'd. 

XXXIX.  Great  Effects  by  weak  Means, 

1  T  TNBELIEF  the  soul  dismays  ; 
tJ    What  objections  wili  it  raise  ?•' 

But  true  faith  securely  leans 
On  the  promise,  in  the  means. 

2  If  to  faith  it  once  be  known, 
God  has  said,  "  it  shall  be  done, 
And  in  this  appointed  way  ;" 
Faith  has  then  no  more  to  say. 

6  Moses'  rod  by  faith  appeared,  (l) 
Through  the  sea  a  path  prepar'd  ; 
Jericho's  devoted  wall  (2) 

At  the  trumpet's  sound  must  fall. 

4  With  a  pitcher  and  a  lamp  (3) 
Gideon  overthrew  a  camp  ; 

And  a  stone  well  aim'd  by  faith,  (4^ 
Prov'd  the  arm'd  Philistine's  death. 

5  Thus  the  Lord  is  pleas'd  to  try 
Those  who  on  his  help  rely  ; 

£5)  Rom.  viii.  32.  (1)  Exodus  xiv  21.  (2)  Josh  vi.  22,' 
(3)  Judges  viu  22.  (4)  1  Sam.  xvii.  42. 


Hy.  40.  CONFLICT.  287 

By  the  means  he  makes  it  known, 

That  the  pow'r  is  all  as  his  own. 
3  Yet  the  means  are  not  in  vain, 

If  the  end  we  would  obtain  ; 

Though  the  breath  of  pray'r  be  weak, 

None  shall  find  but  they  who  seek. 
f  God  alone  the  heart  can  reach, 

Yet  the  ministers  must  preach  : 

'Tis  their  part  the  seed  to  sow, 

And  'tis  his  to  make  it  grow. 

XL.     Why  art thou  cast  down  P 

E  still  my  heart,*  these  anxious  cares, 
To  thee  are  burdens,  thorns,  and  snares. 

They  cast  dishonour  on  thy  Lord, 

And  contradict  his  gracious  word. 
I  Brought  safely  by  his  hand  thus  far, 

"Why  wilt  thou  now  give  place  to  fear  ? 

How  canst  thou  want  if  he  provide, 

Or  lose  thy  way  with  such  a  guide  ? 
I  "When  first  before  his  mercy-seat, 

Thou  didst  to  him  thy  all  commit ; 

He  gave  thee  warrant,  from  that  hour, 

To  trust  his  wisdom,  love,  and  pow'r. 
I?  Did  ever  trouble  yet  befal, 

And  he  refuse  to  hear  thy  call  ? 

And  has  he  not  his  promise  past, 

That  thou  shalt  overcome  at  last  ? 
i  Like  David  thou  mayst  comfort  draw, 

Sav'd  from  the  bear's  and  lion's  paw, 

Goliah's  rage  I  may  defy, 

For  God,  my  Saviour,  still  is  nigh. 
I  He  who  has  help'd  me  hitherto, 

Will  help  me  all  my  journey  through  $ 

And  give  me  daily  cause  to  raise 

New  Ebenezers  to  his  praise. 


2«8  CONFLICT.  Bk.  m. 

7  Though  rough  and  thorny  be  the  road, 
It  leads  thee  home  apace,  to  God  : 
Then  count  thy  present  trials  small, 
For  heav'n  will  make  amends  for  all. 

XLI.     The  way  of  Access. 

1  ^~\NE  glance  of  thine,  eternal  Lord, 
\J   Pierces  all  nature  through  ; 
Nor  heav'n,nor  earth,  nor  hell  afford, 

A  shelter  from  thy  view  ! 

2  The  mighty  whole,  each  smaller  part, 

At  once  before  thee  lies  ; 
And  ev'ry  thought  of  ev'ry  heart, 
Is  open  to  thine  eyes, 

3  Though  greatly  from  myself  conceal'd, 

Thou  see'st  my  inward  frame  ; 
To  thee  I  always  stand  reveaPd, 
Exactly  as  I  am. 

4  Since  therefore  I  can  hardly  bear 

What  in  myself  I  see, 
How»vile  and  black  must  I  appear, 
Most  holy  God,  to  thee. 

5  But  since  my  Saviour  stands  between, 

In  garments  dy'd  in  blood  : 
?Tis  he  instead  of  me,  is  seen, 
When  I  approach  to  God. 

6  Thus,  though  a  sinner,  I  am  safe  ; 

He  pleads  before  the  throne, 
His  life  and  death  in  my  behalf, 
And  calls  my  sins  his  own. 

7  What  wond'rous  love,  what  mysteries. 

In  this  appointment  shine  ! 
My  breaches  of  the  law  are  his,  (l) 
And  his  obedience  mine. 

(1)  2  Cor.  v.  n. 


Hy.  42.  CONFLICT.  289 

XLIL   The  Pilgrim's  Song. 

1  T?  ROM  Egypt  lately  freed 
JC     By  the  Redeemer's  grace  ! 

A  rough  and  thorny  path  we  tread^ 
In  hopes  to  see  his  face. 

2  The  flesh  dislikes  the  way, 
But  faith  approves  it  well ; 
This  only  leads  to  endless  day, 
All  others  lead  to  hell. 

3  The  promis'd  land  of  peace 
Faith  keeps  in  constant  view  ; 
How  different  from  the  wilderness 
"We  now  are  passing  through  ! 

4  Here  often  from  our  eyes 
Clouds  hide  the  light  divine  ; 
There  we  shall  have  unclouded  skies, 
Our  sun  will  always  shine. 

5  Here  griefs,  and  cares,  and  pains, 

And  fears,  distress  us  s.ore ; 
But  there  eternal  pleasure  reigns9 

And  we  shall  weep  no  more. 
6  Lord,  pardon  our  complaints, 

We  follow  at  thy  call ; 
The  joy,  prepar'd  for  sufF'ring  saints^ 

Will  make  amends  for  all. 

SIMILAR  HYMNS, 

Book  I.  Hymn  10,  13,  21,  22,  24,  27,  40,  43, 
44,  51,  56,  63,  76,  88,  107,  115,  126,  130. 
131,  136,  142. 

Book  II.  Hymn  30,  31,  84,  87,  92. 


B   B 


290  COMFORT.  Bk.  111. 

IV.     COMFORT. 
XLIII.  Faith  a  New  and  Comprehensive  Sense* 

1  Qj  IGHT,  hearing,  feeling,  taste,  and  smell, 
O    Are  gifts  we  highly  prize  ; 

But  faith  does  singly  each  excel, 
And  all  the  five  comprise. 

2  More  piercing  than  the  eagle's  sight, 

It  views  the  world  unknown  : 
Surveys  the  glorious  realms  of  light, 
And  Jesus  on  the  throne. 

3  It  hears  the  mighty  voice  of  God, 

And  ponders  what  he  saith  ; 
His  word  and  works,  his  gilts  and  rod, 
Have  each  a  voice  to  faith. 

4  It  feels  the  touch  of  heav'nly  pow'r  (l) 

And  from  the  boundless  source, 
Derives  fresh  vigour  ev'ry  hour 
To  run  its  daily  course. 

5  The  truth  and  goodness  of  the  Lord 

Are  suited  to  its  taste  ;   (2) 
Mean  is  the  worldlings  pamper'd  board, 
To  faith's  perpetual  feast. 

6  It  smells  the  dear  Redeemer's  name 

Like  ointment  poured  forth ;  (3) 
Faith  only  knows,  or  can  proclaim, 
Its  favour  or  its  worth. 

7  'Till  saving  faith  possess  the  mind, 

In  vain  of  sense  we  boast ; 
We  are  but  senseless,  tasteless,  blind, 
And  deaf,  and  dead,  and  lost. 

XLIV.  (c)   The  happy  Change. 

I   T_T  OW  blest  thy  creature  is,  O  God, 
jn_   When  with  a  single  eye, 
(1)  Lukeviii.  46.    (2)  Psalm  cxix.    (3)  Sol.  Scmgi.  3. 


Hy.  45.  COMFORT.  291 

He  views  the  lustre  of  thy  word, 

The  day  spring  from  on  high  ? 
2  Through  all  the  storms  that  veil  the  skies, 

And  frown  on  earthly  things  ; 
The  Sun  of  righteousness  he  eyes, 

With  healing  on  his  wings. 
"3  Struck  by  that  light,  the  human  heart  (3), 

A  barren  soil  no  more  ; 
Sends  the  sweet  smell  of  grace  abroad, 

Where  serpents  lurk'd  before. 

4  The  soul,  a  dreary  province  once 

Of  Satan's  dark  domain, 
Feels  a  new  empire  form'd  within, 
And  owns  a  heav'nly  reign. 

5  The  glorious  orb,  whose  golden  beams 

The  fruitful  year  controul ; 
Since  first,  obedient  to  thy  word, 

He  started  from  the  goal : 
$  Has  cheer'd  the  nations  with  the  joys 

His  orient  rays  impart ; 
But,  Jesus,  'tis  thy  light  alone, 

Can  shine  upon  the  heart. 

XLV*    (c)  Retirement* 

1  Tni  AR  from  the  world,  O  Lord,  I  fleer, 
JC     From  strife  and  tumult  far; 
From  scenes  where  Satan  wages  still 

His  most  successful  war. 

2  The  calm  retreat,  the  silent  shade, 

With  pray'r  and  praise  agree  ; 
And  seem,  by  thy  sweet  bounty  made, 
For  those  who  follow  thee. 

3  There  if  thy  Spirit  touch  the  soul, 

And  grace  her  mean  abode  ; 

(3)  Isaiah  xxxv.  7, 


292  COMFORT.  Bk.  in. 

Oh  with  what  peace,  and  joy,  and  love, 
She  communes  with  her  God  ! 
^  There  like  the  nightingale  she  pours- 
Her  solitary  lays  $ 
Nor  asks  a  witness  of  her  song, 
Nor  thirsts  for  human  praise. 

5  Author  and  guardian  of  my  life, 

Sweet  source  of  light  divine  y 
And  (all  harmonious  names  in  one) 
My  Saviour  thou  art  mirifc^ 

6  "What  thanks  I  owe  thee,  and  what  love, 

A  boundless,  endless,  store  ; 
Shall  echo  through  the  realms  above 
When  time  shall  be  no  more. 

XLVI.  Jesus  my  AIL 

1  TITHt  should  I  fear  the  darkest  hour, 

VV     Or  tremble  at  the  tempter's  pow'r  ? 
Jesus  vouchsafes  to  be  my  towV. 

2  Though  hot  the  fight,  why  quit  the  field  ? 
Why  must  I  either  flee  o*  yield, 

Since  Jesus  is  my  mighty  shield  ? 

3  When  creature  comforts  fade  and  die, 
Worldlings  may  weep:  but  why  should  I: 
Jesus  still  lives,  and  still  is  nigh. 

4  Tho'  all  the  flocks  and  herds  were"  deads, 
31  y  soul  a  famine  need  not  dread, 

For  Jesus  is  my  living  bread. 

5  I  know  not  what  may  soon  betide, 
Or  how  my  wants  shall  be  supply'd  ; 
But  Jesus  knows,  and  will  provide. 

6  Though  sin  would  fill  me  with  distress.* 
The  throne  of  grace  I  dare  address. 
For  Jesus  is  my  righteousness. 


Hy.  4?.  COMFORT.  293 

7  Though  faint  my  pray'rs,  and  cold  my  love., 
Mv  stedfast  hope  shall  not  remove, 

While  Jesus  intercedes  above. 

8  Against  me  earth  and  hell  combine ; 
But  on  my  side  is  pow'r  divine  : 
Jesus  is  all,  and  he  is  mine. 

XLVII.   The  hidden  Life. 

1  rT^O  tell  the  Saviour  all  my  wants, 

JL     How  pleasing  is  the  task  ? 
Nor  less  to  praise  him  when  he  grants 
Beyond  wnat  I  can  ask. 

2  My  iab'ring  spirit  vainly  seeks 

To  tell  but  half  the  joy  : 
"With  how  much  tenderness  he  speaks? 
And  helps  me  to  reply. 

3  Nor  were  it  wise,  nor  should  I  choose 

Such  secrets  to  declare; 
Like  precious  wines  their  taste  they  lose, 
Expos'd  to  open  air. 

4  Bat  with  this  boldness  I  proclaim, 

Nor  care  if  thousands  hear  ; 
Sweet  is  the  ointment  of  his  name, 
Not  life  is  half  so  dear. 

5  And  can  you  frown,  my  former  friends? 

Who  know  what  once  I  was  ; 
And  blame  the  song  that  thus  commends  • 

The  man  who  oore  the  cross. 
6"  Trust  me  I  draw  the  likeness  true, 

Not  such  as  fancy  paints  ; 
Such  honour  may  he  give  to  you, 

For  such  have  all  his  saints. 

XL VIII.  Joy  and  Peace  in  believing- 


s 


OMETIMES  a  light  surprises 
The  christian  while  he  sings , 

sb2 


294  COMFORT.  Bx.  III. 

It  is  the  Lord  who  rises 

With  healing  on  his  wings; 
When  comforts  are  declining, 

He  grants  the  soul  again 
A  season  of  clear  shining, 

To  cheer  it  after  rain. 
2  In  holy  contemplation, 

We  sweetly  then  pursue 
The  theme  of  God's  salvationr 

And  find  it  ever  new  : 
Set  free  from  present  sorrow, 

We  cheerfully  can  say, 
E'en  let  the  unknown  to-morrow  (l) 

Bring  with  it  what  it  may, 
.3  It  can  bring  with  it  nothing 

But  he  will  bear  us  through, 
Who  gives  the  lilies  clothing, 

Will  clothe  his  people  too  : 
Beneath  the  spreading  heav'ns* 

No  creature  but  is  fed; 
And  he  who  feeds  the  ravens, 

Will  give  his  children  bread. 
^  Though  vine  nor  fig-tree  neither  (2) 

Their  wonted  fruit  shall  bear, 
Though  all  the  fields  should  wither, 

Nor  flocks  nor  herds  be  there  : 
Yet  God  the  same  abiding, 

His  praise  shall  tune  my  voice  $ 
For  while  in  him  confiding, 

I  cannot  but  rejoice. 

XLIX.  (c)   True  Pleasures. 

I    "       ORD,  my  soul  with  pleasure  springs^ 
I  a  When  Jesus'  name  I  hear; 

(I)  Matt.  vi.  34.         (2)  Habakkuk  iii.  17,  It; 


Ht.  50.  COMFORT.  295 

And  when  God  the  Spirit  brings 

The  word  of  promise  near  $ 
Beauties  too,  in  holiness, 
Still  delighted  I  perceive  ; 
Nor  ha^e  words  that  can  express 

The  joys  thy  precepts  give. 

2  Cloth'd  in  sanctity  and  grace, 

How  sweet  it  is  to  see, 
Those  who  love  thee  as  they  pass, 

Or  when  they  wait  on  thee  : 
Pleasant  too,  to  sit  and  tell 
What  we  owe  to  love  divine  ; 
'Till  our  bosoms  grateful  swell, 

And  eyes  begin  to  shine. 

3  Those  the  comforts  I  possess, 

Which  God  shall  still  increase  : 
All  his  ways  are  pleasantness  (1), 

And  all  his  paths  are  peace  : 
Nothing  Jesus  did  or  spoke, 
Henceforth  let  me  ever  slight ; 
For  I  love  his  easy  yoke  (2), 

And  find  his  burden  light. 

L.  (c)    The  Christian. 

1  T  T  ONOUR  and  happiness  unite 

JljL  To  make  the  Christian's  name  a  praise3, 
How  far  the  scene,  how  clear  the  light, 
That  fills  the  remnant  of  his  days  ! 

2  A  kingly  character  he  bears, 

No  change  his  priestly  office  knows  | 
Unfading  is  the  crown  he  wears, 
His  joys  can  never  reach  a  close. 

3  Adorn'd  with  glory  from  on  high, 
Salvation  shines  upon  his-  face  ; 

(1)  Pfov.  iii.  17.        (2)  Matt,  xi.  S& 


296  COMFORT.  Bk.  IBS 

His  robe  is  of  th'  etherial  dye, 
His  steps  are  dignity  and  grace. 

4  Inferior  honours  he  disdains, 

Nor  stoops  to  take  applause  from  earth; 
The  King  of  kings  himself  maintains 
Th'  expences  of  his  heavenly  birth. 

5  The  noblest  creatures  seen  below, 
Ordain'd  to  fill  a  throne  above  ; 
God  gives  him  all  he  can  bestow, 
His  kingdom  of  eternal  love  ! 

6  My  soul  is  ravish'd  at  the  thought! 
Methinks  from  earth  I  see  him  rise  ; 
Angels  congratulate  his  lot, 

And  shout  him  welcome  to  the  skies ! 

LI.   (c)  Lively  Hope  and  gracious  Fear, 

%    T  WAS  a  grov'ling  creature  once, 
A.  And  basely  cleav'd  to  earth  ; 
I  wanted  spirit  to  renounce 
The  clod  that  gave  me  birth. 

2  But  God  has  breath'd  upon  a  worm, 

And  sent  me  from  above, 
Wings  such  as  clothe  an  angel's  form, 
The  wings  of  joy  and  love. 

3  "With  these  to  Pisgah's  top  1  fly, 

And  there  delighted  stand  : 
To  view  beneath  a  shining  sky, 
The  spacious  promis'd  land. 

4  The  Lord  of  all  the  vast  domain 

Has  promised  it  to  me  : 
The  length  and  breadth  of  all  the  plain, 

As  far  as  faith  can  see. 
$  How  glorious  is  my  privilege  ! 

To  thee  for  help  I  call; 
I  stand  upon  a  mountain's  edge, 

Oh  save  me,  lest  I  fall ! 


Hy.  52.  COMFORT.  29? 

6  Though  much  exalted  in  the  Lord, 
My  strength  is  not  my  own  : 
Then  let  me  tremble  at  his  word, 
And  none  shall  cast  me  down. 

LI1.  Confidence* 

1    "\7"ES  I  since  God  himself  has  said  it3 
X     On  the  promise  I  rely ; 
His  good  word  demands  my  credit, 
What  can  unbelief  reply  ? 
He  is  strong  and  can  fulfil, 
He  is  truth,  and  therefore  wilL 
2-  As  to  all  the  doubts  and  questions. 
Which  my  spirit  often  grieve, 
These  are  Satan's  sly  suggestions, 
And  I  need  no  answer  give  : 

He  would  fain  destroy  my  hope, 
But  the  promise  bears  it  up. 

3  Sure  the  Lord  thus  far  has  brought  me 
By  his  watchful  tender  care  ; 

Sure  'tis  he  himself  has  taught  me 
How  to  seek  his  face  by  pray'r  : 

After  so  much  mercy  past, 

Will  he  give  me  up  at  last  ? 

4  True  I've  been  a  foolish  creature, 
And  have  sinn'd  against  his  grace  ? 
But  forgiveness  is  his  nature, 
Though  he  justly  hides  his  face  : 

Ere  he  callM  me,  well  he  knew  (1\ 
What  a  heart  like  mine  would  do. 

5  In  my  Saviour's  intercession 
Therefore  I  will  still  confide  ; 
Lord  accept  my  free  confession, 

I  have  sinn'd,  but  thou  hast  dy'd  (2 ). 
This  is  all  I  havt^plead, 
This  is  all  the  pica  .1  need. 

(1)  Isaiah  xlviii.  8.        (2)  Rom.  viii.  34* 


298  COMFORT.  Bk.  III. 

LIII.  Peace  restored. 

1  r\H,  speak  that  gracious  word  again, 
KJ   And  cheer  my  drooping  heart, 
No  voice  but  thine  can  sooth  my  pain, 

Or  bid  my  fears  depart. 

2  And  canst  thou  still  vouchsafe  to  own 

A  wretch  so  vile  as  I  ? 
And  may  I  still  approach  thy  throne, 
And  Abba  Father,  cry  ? 

3  O  then  let  saints  and  angels  join, 

And  help  me  to  proclaim, 
The  grace  thatlieaPd  a  breach  like  minet 
And  put  my  foes'  to  shame. 

4  How  oft  did  Satan's  cruel  boast 

My  troubl'd  soul  affright ! 
He  told  me  I  was  surely  lost, 
And  God  had  left  me  quite  (1).' 

5  Guilt  made  me  fear,  lest  all  were  true 

The  lying  temtper  said  ! 
But  now  the  Lord  appears  in  view, 
My  enemy  is  fled. 
G  My  Saviour  by  his  pow'rful  word, 
Has  tura'd  my  night  to  day, 
And  his  salvation's  joys  restor'd, 
Which  I  had  sinn'd  away. 
Y  Dear  Lord,  I  wonder  and  adore  ; 
Thy  grace  is  all  divine  ; 
Oh  keep  me,  that  I  sin  no  more 
Against  such  love  as  thine  ! 

LIV.  Hear  what  he  has  done  for  my  soul  I 

1    OAV'D  by  blood,  I  live  to  tell, 

O   What  the  lovt  of  Christ  hath  done  ; 

(1)  Psalm  Ixxi.  11. 


Hy.  55.  COMFORT.  299 

He  redeem'd  my  soul  from  hell, 
Of  a  rebel  made  a  son  : 
Oh !  I  tremble  still  to  think     , 
How  secure  I  liv'd  in  sin ; 
Sporting  on  destruction's  brink, 
Yet  preserved  from  failing  in. 

2  In  his  own  appointed  hour, 

To  my  heart  the  Saviour  spoke  ; 
Touch'd  me  by  his  Spirit's  power, 
And  my  dang'rous  slumber  broke, 
Then  I  saw  and  own'd  my  guilt, 
Soon  my  gracious  Lord  reply'd : 
"  Fear  not,  1  my  blood  have  spilt, 
'Twas  for  such  as  thee  I  dy'd." 

3  Shame  and  wonder,  joy  and  love, 
All  at  once  possess'd  my  heart ; 
Can  I  hope  thy  grace  to  prove, 
After  acting  such  a  part  ? 

u  Thou  hast  greatly  sinn'd,  he  said, 
But  I  freely  all  forgive  ; 
I  myself  thy  debt  have  paid, 
Now  I  bid  thee  rise  and  live." 

4  Come,  my  fellow-sinners,  try, 
Jesus'  heart  is  full  of  love  ; 
Oh,  that  you,  as  well  as  I, 

May  his  wond'rous  mercy  prove  ! 
He  has  sent  me  to  declare, 
Ail  ss  ready  all  is  free  : 
Why  should  any  soul  despair, 
When  he  sav'd  a  wretch  like  me. 


LV.    Freedom  from  care* 

I   \KTHILE  I  liv'd  without  the  Lord 
V  V     (If  I  might  be  said  to  live) 
Nothing  could  relief  afford  ; 
Nothing  satisfaction  give. 


500 


COMFORT.  Bk.  JIL 


2  Empty  hopes  and  groundless  fear, 
Mov'd  by  turns  my  anxious  mind  ; 
"Like  a  feather  in  the  air, 

Made  the  sport  of  ev'ry  wind. 

3  Now  I  see,,  whatever  betide, 
All  is  well  if  Christ  be  mine  ; 
He  has  promis'd  to  provide, 
I  have  only  to  resign. 

4  AVhen  a  sense  of  sin  and  thrall, 
Forc'd  me  to  the  sinner's  Friend  ; 
He  engag'd  to  manage  all, 

By  the  way  and  to  the  end. 

5  "  Cast,  he  said,  on  me  thy  care  (1), 
'Tis  enough  that  I  am  nigh  ; 

I  will  all  thy  burdens  bear, 
I  will  all  thy  wants  supply. 

6  "  Simply  follow  as  I  lead 
Do  not  reason  but  believe  ; 
Call  on  me  in  time  of  need, 
Thou  shalt  surely  help  receive." 

7  Lord,  I  would,  I  do  submit, 
Gladly  yield  my  all  to  thee  ; 
What  thy  wisdom  sees  most  fit, 
Must  be,  surely,  best  for  me. 

8  Only  when  the  way  is  rough, 
And  the  coward  flesh  would  start* 
Let  thy  promise  and  thy  love, 
Cheer  and  animate  my  heart. 


LYI.  Humiliation  and  Praise, 


■w 


(Imitated  from  the  German.) 

HEN  the  wounded  spirit  hears 
The  voice  of  Jesus'  blood  ; 

(1)  Psalm  iv.  22.    1  Pet.  v.  5. 


Hy.  5T.  COMFORT.  301 

How  the  message  stops  the  tears 
Which  else  in  vain  had  flow'd  : 

Pardon,  grace,  and  peace  proclaim'dp 

And  the  sinner  call'd  a  child ; 

Then  the  stubborn  heart  is  tam'd, 
Renew'd,  and  reconcil'd. 

2  Oh  !  'twas  grace  indeed,  to  spare 

And  save  a  wretch  like  me  ! 
Men  or  angels  could  not  bear 

What  I  have  offered  thee : 
Were  thy  bolts  at  their  command, 
Hell,  ere  now,  had  been  my  place  j 
Thou  alone  should  silent  stand, 

And  wait  to  shew  thy  grace. 

3  If  in  one  created  mind 

The  tenderness  and  love 
Of  thy  saints  on  earth  were  join'd,  * 

With  all  the  hosts  above  ; 
Still  that  love  were  weak  and  poor, 
If  compar'd,  my  Lord,  with  thine  j 
Far  too  scanty  to  endure 

A  heart  so  vile  as  mine. 

4  Wond'rous  mercy  I  have  found, 

But,  ah  !   now  faint  my  praise! 
Must  I  be  a  cumber-ground, 

Unfruitful  all  my  days  ? 
Do  I  in  thy  garden  grow, 
Yet  produce  thee  only  leaves  ? 
liord,  forbid  it  should  be  so  ! 

The  thought  my  spirit  grieveso 

5  Heavy  charges  Satan  brings, 

To  fill  me  with  distress  ; 
Let  me  hide  beneath  thy  wings. 

And  plead  thy  righteousness  : 
Lord,  to  thee  for  help  I  call, 
'Tis  thy  promise  bids  me  come  ; 
Tell  hitn  thou  hast  paid  for  all, 

And  that  snail  strike  him  dumb* 
C    c 


302  COMFORT.  Bk.  III. 

LTII.  (c)  For  the  Poor. 

1  XT  THEN  Hagar  found  the  bottle  spent  (1) 

V  V     And  wept  o'er  Ishmael ; 
A  message  from  the  Lord  was  sent 
To  guide  her  to  a  well. 

2  Should  not  Elijah's  cake  and  cruise  (2) 

Convince  us  at  this  day  ; 
A  gracious  God  will  not  refuse 
Provisions  by  the  way  ? 

3  His  saints  and  servants  shall  be  fed, 

The  promise  is  secure  ; 
"  Bread  shall  be  giv'n  them,  as  he  said, 
Their  water  shall  be  sure  (3). 

4  Repast  far  richer  they  shall  prove, 

Than  all  earth's  dainties  are  ; 
'Tis  sweet  to  taste  a  Saviour's  love, 
Though  in  the  meanest  fare. 

5  To  Jesus  then  your  trouble  bring, 

Nor  murmur  at  your  lot : 
While  you  are  poor,  and  he  is  king, 
You  shall  not  be  forgot. 

LVIII.     Home  in  vietu. 

i      \    S  when  a  weary  trav'ller  gains 

jLjl    The  height  of  some  o'erlooking  hill, 
His  heart  revives,  if  cross  the  plains 
He  eyes  his  home,  though  distant  still. 

2  While  he  surveys  the  much  lov'd  spot, 
He  slights  the  space  that  lies  between  ; 
His  past  fatigues  are  now  forgot ; 
Because  his  journey's  end  is  seen. 

(1)  Gen.  xxi.  19.  (2)  Kings  xvii.  14- 

(3)  Isa.  xxiii.  16. 


Hy.  59.         DEDICATION,  &c.  303 

3  Thus  when  the  christian  pilgrim  views 
By  faith  his  mansion  in  the  skies, 
The  sight  his  fainting  strength  renews, 
And  wings  his  speed  to  reach  the  prize. 

4  The  thought  of  home  his  spirit  cheers, 
No  more  he  grieves  for  troubles  past; 
Nor  any  future  trial  fears  (1), 

So  he  may  safe  arrive  at  last. 

5  'Tis  there,  he  says,  I  am  to  dwell 
With  Jesus  in  the  realms  of  day  ; 
Then  I  shall  bid  my  cares  farewel, 
And  he  will  wipe  my  tears  away. 

6  Jesus,  on  thee  our  hope  depends, 
To  lead  us  on  to  thine  abode  ; 
Assur'd  our  home  will  make  amends 
For  all  our  toil  while  on  the  road. 

SIMILAR  HYMNS. 

Book  I.  Hymn  4,  7,  9,  11,  25,  S5,  36,  39,  41, 
46,  47,  48,  70,  95,  128,  133. 
Book  II.  Hymn  45,  46,  47. 


V.  Dedication  and  Surrender. 
LIX.  Old  things  are  passed  away. 

1  '       ET  worldly  minds  the  world  pursue, 
I  j  It  has  no  charm  >  for  mc  ; 

Once  I  admir'd  its  trifles  too, 
But  grace  has  set  me  free. 

2  Its  pleasures  now  no  longer  pleas,e? 

No  more  content  afford  ; 

(1)  Acts,  xx.  2& 


304  BEDICATION,  &c.        Bk.  HI, 

Far  from  my  heart  be  joys  like  theser 
Now  I  have  seen  the  Lord, 

3  As  by  the  light  of  op'ning  day 

The  stars  are  all  conceal'd  ; 
So  earthly  pleasures  fade  away, 
When  Jesus  is  reveal'd. 

4  Creatures  no  more  divide  my  choice, 

I  bid  them  all  depart ; 
His  name  and  love  and  gracious  voice. 
Have  fix'd  my  roving  heart. 

5  Now,  Lord,  I  would  be  thine  alone, 

And  holy  live  to  thee  ; 
But  may  I  hope  that  thou  wilt  own 
A  worthless  worm  like  me  ? 

6  Yes  !  though  of  sinners  I'm  the  worst, 

I  cannot  doubt  thy  will ; 
For  if  thou  had'st  not  lov'd  me  first 
I  had  refus'd  thee  still  (1). 

LX.   The  power  of  grace. 

1  TTAPPY  the  birth  where  grace  presides 
Jrl  To  form  the  future  life  ! 

In  wisdom's  paths  the  soul  she  guides, 
Remote  from  noise  and  strife. 

2  Since  I  have  known  the  Saviour's  narae^ 

And  what  for  me  he  bore  ; 

No  more  I  toil  for  empty  fame, 

1  thirst  for  gold  no  more. 

3  Plac'd  by  his  hand  in  this  retreat, 

I  make  his  love  my  theme  ,* 
And  see  that  all  the  world  calls  great, 
Is  but  a  waking  dream. 

4  Since  he  has  rank'd  my  worthless  name. 

Among'st  his  favour'd  low  ; 

(1)  Jeremiah  xxxi.  £ 


Hy.  61.        DEDICATION.  &c.  aw 

Let  the  mad  world  who  scoff  at  them, 
Revile  and  hate  me  too, 

5  O  thou  whose  voice  the  dead  can  raise, 

And  soften  hearts  of  stone, 
And  teach  the  dumb  to  sing  thy  praise 
This  work  is  all  thine  own  ! 

6  Thy  wond'ring  saints  rejoice  to  see 

A  wretch,  like  me,  restor'd  : 
And  point,  and  say,  "  How  chang'd  is  he, 
Who  once  defy'd  the  Lord  !" 

7  Grace  bid  me  live,  and  taught  my  tongue, 

To  aim  at  notes  divine  ; 
And  grace  accepts  my  feeble  song, 
Tne  glory,  Lord,  be  thine  ! 

LXI.  (c)  My  soul  thzrstethfor  GOD. 

1  T  THIRST,  but  not  as  once  I  did, 

A   The  vain  delights  of  earth  to  share  : 
Thy  wounds,  Emmanuel,  all  forbid, 
That  I  should  seek  my  pleasures  there. 

2  It  was  the  sight  of  thy  dear  cross, 

First  wean'd  my  soul  from  earthly  things  ; 
And  taught  me  to  esteem  as  dross, 
Tne  mirth  of  fools  and  pomp  of  kings. 

3  I  want  that  grace  that  springs  from  thee, 
That  quickens  all  things  where  it  flows  | 
And  makes  a  wretched  thorn,  like  me, 
Bloom  as  the  myrtle,  or  the  rose. 

4  Dear  fountain  of  delight  unknown  ! 
No  longer  sink  below  the  brim  ; 
Buc  overflow,  and  pour  me  down, 
A  living,  and  life-giving  stream  ! 

5  For  sure,  of  all  the  plants  that  share 
The  notice  of  thy  father's  eye  ; 
None  proves  less  grateful  to  his  care, 
Nor  yields  him  meaner  fruit  than  I. 

C     c     2 


.206  DEDICATION,  &c.        Bk.  IUr 

LXII  (c)  Love  constraining  to  obedience. 

1    ^VT  O  strength  of  nature  can  suffice 
-lN     To  serve  the  Lord  aright ; 
And  what  she  has,  she  misapplies, 
For  want  of  clearer  light. 
3  How  long  beneath  the  law  I  lay, 
In  bondage  and  distress  ! 
I  toil'd  the  precept  to  obey, 
Buttoil'd  without  success. 

3  Tht- n  to  abstain  from  outward  sin, 

Was  more  than  I  could  do ; 
Now  if  I  feel  its  pow'r  within, 
I  feel  I  hate  it  too. 

4  Then  all  my  servile  works  were  done 

A  righteousness  to  raise  ; 
Now  freely  chosen  in  the  Son, 

I  freely  choose  his  ways. 
-d  "What  should  I  do,  was  then  the  word, 

That  I  may  worthier  grow  ? 
What  shall  I  render  to  the  Lord  ? 

Is  my  inquiry  now. 
6  To  see  the  law  by  Christ  fulfilPd, 

And  hear  his  pard'ning  voice  ; 
Changes  a  slave  into  a  child  (l), 

And  duty  into  choice. 

LXIII.  (c)  The  heart  healed  and  changed  by 
Me rcy, 

1    Q*  IN  enslav'd  me  many  years, 
O   And  led  me  bound  and  blind  ; 
Till  at  length  a  thousand  fears 
Came  swarming  o'er  my  mincj,, 

*|1)  Rom.  iiL  3L 


Hy.  64.  DEDICATION,  &c»  30? 

"Where,  I  said  in  deep  distress, 
"Will  these  sinful  pleasures  end  ? 
How  shall  I  secure  my  peace, 
And  make  the  Lord  my  friend  T 
3       Friends  and  ministers  said  much 
The  gospel  to  enforce  ; 
But  my  blindness  still  was  such ; 

I  chose  a  legal  course  : 
Much  I  fasted,  watch'd,  and  strove, 
Scarce  would  shew  my  face  abroad, 
Fear'd  almost  to  speak  or  move, 
A  stranger  still  to  God. 
3-       Thus  afraid  to  trust  his  grace. 
Long  time  did  I  rebel ; 
Till  despairing  of  my  case, 

Down  at  his  feet  I  fell  : 
Then  my  stubborn  heart  he  broke. 
And  subdu'd  me  to  his  sway ; 
By  a  simple  word  he  spoke, 
M  Thy  sins  are  done  away." 

LXIV.     (c)  Hatred  of  sin. 

1  TJ  OLY  Lord  God  !  I  love  thy  truth, 
J.  JL  Nor  dare  thy  least  commandment 

slight ; 
Yet  pierc'd  by  sin,  the  serpent's  tooth, 
I  mourn  the  anguish  of  the  bite. 

2  But  though  the  poison  lurks  within, 
Hope  bids  me  still  with  patience  wait  * 
Till  death  shall  set  me  free  from  sin, 
Free  from  the  only  thing  I  hate. 

•3  Had  I  a  throne  above  the  rest, 

"Where  angels  and  archangels  dwell  ? 
One  sin,  unslain,  within  my  breast, 
"Would  make  that  heav'n  as  dark  as  belli 


308  DEDICATION,  &c.        Bk.  III. 

4  The  pris'ner,  sent  to  breathe  fresh  air, 
And  bless'd  with  liberty  again, 
"Would  mourn  were  he  condemn'd  to  wear 
One  link  of  all  his  former  chain. 

0  But  oh  !  no  foe  invades  the  bliss, 
When  glory  crowns  the  christian's  head 
One  view  of  Jesus  as  he  is, 

Will  strike  all  sin  for  ever  dead. 

LXV.     The  Child.  (1) 

1  f~\  UIET,  Lord,  my  froward  heart, 
^c^    Make  me  teachable  and  mild, 
"Upright,  simple,  free  from  art, 
Make  me  as  a  weaned  child  ; 

From  distrust  and  envy  free, 
Pleas'd  with  all  that  pleases  thee* 

2  What  thou  shalt  to-day  provide, 
Let  me  as  a  child  receive  ; 
What  to-morrow  may  betide. 
Calmly  to  thy  wisdom  leave  : 

'Tis  enough  that  thou  wilt  care, 
Why  should  I  the  burden  bear  ? 

3  As  a  little  child  relies 

On  a  care  beyond  his  own  ; 

Knows  he's  neither  strong  nor  wise  ; 

Fears  to  stir  a  step  alone  ; 
Let  me  thus  with  thee  abide, 
As  my  Father,  Guard  and  Guide. 

4  Thus  preserved  from  Satan's  wiles, 
Safe  from  dangers,  free  from  fears, 
May  I  live  upon  thy  sniiles, 

Till  the  promis'd  hour  appears  ; 
When  the  sons  of  God  shall  prove 
All  their  Father's  bound L  ss  iove. 

(1)  Psalm  exxxi.  2.  Matt,  xviii.  3,  4. 


Hr.  66.  DEDICATION,  &c.  309 

LXVT.   True  Happiness* 

s 

1  TT^  IX'my  heart  and  eyes  on  thine  I 
_T  What  are  other  objects  worth? 
But  to  see  thy  glory  shine, 

Is  a heav'n  begun  on  earth  : 
Trifles  can  no  longer  move, 
Oh,  I  tread  on  all  beside, 
When  I  feel  my  Saviour's  love, 
And  remember  how  he  dy'd. 

2  Now  my  search  is  at  an  end, 
Now  my  wishes  rove  no  more  ! 
Thus  my  moments  I  would  spend, 
Love,  and  wonder,  and  adore  ; 
Jesus,  source  of  excellence  ! 

All  thy  glorious  love  reveal ! 
Kingdoms  shall  not  bribe  me  hence, 
While  this  happiness  I  feel. 

3  Take  my  heart  'tis  all  thine  own, 
To  thy  will  my  spirit  frame  ; 
Thou  shalt  reign  and  thou  alone, 
Over  all  I  have,  or  am  : 

If  a  foolish  thought  shall  dare 
To  rebel  against  thy  word, 
Slay,  it  Lord,  and  do  not  spare, 
Let  it  feel  thy  Spirit's  sword. 

4  Making  thus  the  Lord  my  choice, 
I  have  nothing  more  to  choose. 
But  to  listen  to  thy  voice, 

And  my  will  in  thine  to  lose  : 
Thus,  whatever  may  betide, 
I  shall  safe  and  happy  be : 
Still  content  and  satisty'd, 
Having  all,  in  having  thee. 


310         DEDICATION,  &c.  Bk.  III. 

LXVII.     The  happy  Debtor. 

1  r  |    EN  thousand  talents  once  I  ovv'd, 

JL     And  nothing  had  to  pay  ; 
But  Jesus  freed  me  from  the  load", 
And  wash'd  my  debt  away. 

2  Yet  since  the  Lord  forgave  my  sin, 

And  blotted  out  my  score  ; 
Much  more  indebted  I  have  been, 
Than  e'er  I  was  before. 

3  My  guilt  is  cancell'd  quite,  I  know, 

And  satisfaction  made  ; 
But  the  vast  debt  of  love  I  owe, 
Can  never  be  repaid. 

4  The  love  I  owe  for  sin  forgiv'n, 

For  power  to  believe, 
For  present  peace,  and  promis'd  heav'n, 
No  angel  can  conceive. 

5  That  iove  of  thine  !  thou  sinner's  Friend  J 

Witness  thy  bleeding  heart ! 
My  little  all  can  ne'er  extend 
To  pay  a  thousandth  part. 

6  Nay  more,  the  poor  returns  I  make 

I  first  from  thee  obtain  ;  (1) 
And  'tis  of  grace,  that  thou  wilt  take 
Such  poor  returns  again. 

7  'Tis  well — it  shall  my  glory  be 

(Let  who  will  boast  their  store) 
In  time,  and  to  eternity, 

To  owe  thee  more  and  more. 

SIMILAR   HYMNS. 

Book  I.  Hymn  27,  50,  70,  93,  122* 
Book  11.  Hymn  23,  90. 

(1)  1  Chron.  xxi.14. 


Hy.  68.  CAUTIONS.  311 

VI.     CAUTIONS. 

LXVIIL  (c)  The  New  Convert. 

1  rinHE  new-born  child  of  gospel-grace, 

JL     Like  some  fair  tree  when  summer's 
nigh, 
Beneath  Emmanuel's  shining  face, 
Lifts  up  his  blooming  branch  on  high. 

2  No  fears  he  feels,  he  sees  no  foes, 
No  conflict  yet  his  faith  employs, 
Nor  has  he  learnt,  to  whom  he  owes, 
The  strength  and  peace  his  soul  enjoys-. 

3  But  sin  soon  darts  its  cruel  sting, 
And  comforts  sinking  day  by  day : 
What  seem'd  his  own,  a  self-fed  spring, 
Proves  but  a  brook  that  glides  away. 

4  When  Gideon  arm'd  his  num'rous  host, 
The  Lord  soon  made  his  numbers  less  ; 
And  said,  lest  Israel  vainly  boast,  (l) 

"  My  arm  procur'd  me  this  success." 

5  Thus  will  he  bring  our  spirits  down, 
And  draw  our  ebbing  comforts  low, 
That  sav'd  by  grace,  but  not  our  own, 
We  may  not  claim  the  praise  we  owe. 

LXIX.  (c)   True  and  false  Comforts, 


o\ 


GOD,  whose  favorable  eye 


The  sin-sick  soul  revives  ; 
Holy  and  heav'nly  is  the  joy, 

Thy  shining  presence  gives. 
Not  such  as  hypocrites  suppose, 

Who  with  a  graceless  heart, 
Taste  not  of  thee,  but  drink  a  dose 

Prepar'd  by  Satan's  art. 

(1)  Judges  vii.  2. 


312  CAUTIONS.  J5k.    III. 

3  Intoxicatingjoys  are  theirs, 

Who  while  they  boast  their  light, 
And  seem'd  to  soar  above  the  stars, 
Are  plunging  into  night. 

4  Lull'd  in  a  soft  and  fatal  sleep, 

They  sin  and  yet  rejoice  ; 
Were  they  indeed  the  Saviour's  sheep, 
Would  they  not  hear  his  voice  ? 

5  Be  mine  the  comforts  that  reclaim 

The  soul  from  Satan's  pow'r  ; 
That  makes  me  blush  for  what  I  am, 
And  hate  my  sin  the  more. 

6  'Tis  joy  enough,  my  All  in  All, 

At  thy  dear  feet  to  lie  ; 
Thou  wilt  not  let  me  lower  fall, 
And  none  can  higher  fly* 

LXX.      True  and  false  Zeal, 

1  r^EAL  is  that  pure  and  heav'nly  flame, 
iLi   The  fire  of  love  supplies; 

While  that  which  often  bears  the  name, 
Is  self  in  a  disguise. 

2  True  zeal  is  merciful  and  mild, 

Can  pity  and  forbear ; 
The  false  is  headstrong,  fierce,  and  wild, 
.     And  breathes  revenge  and  war. 

3  While  zeal  for  truth  the  christian  warms, 

He  knows  the  worth  of  peace  ; 
But  self  contends  for  names  and  forms, 
Its  party  to  increase. 

4  Zeal  has  attain'd  its  highest  aim, 

Its  end  is  satisfy'd  : 
If  sinners  love  the  Saviour's  name, 
Nor  seeks  it  ought  beside. 

5  But  self  however  well  employ'd, 

Has  its  own  ends  in  view  j 


i 


Hy.  71.  CAUTIONS.  313 

And  says,  as  boasting  Jehu  cry'd,  (i) 
"  Come,  see  what  I  can  do." 

6  Self  may  its  poor  reward  obtain, 

And  be  applauded  here  ; 
But  zeal  the  best  applause  will  gain, 
When  Jesus  shall  appear. 

7  Dear  Lord,  the  idol  self  dethrone, 

And  from  our  hearts  remove  ; 
And  let  no  zeal  by  us  be  shewn, 
But  that  which  springs  from  love* 

LXXI.    (c)   A  living  and  a  dead  Faith. 

1  ^HE  Lord  receives  his  highest  praise, 

X    From  humble  minds  and  hearts  sincerej 
While  all  the  loud  professor  says, 
Offends  the  righteous  Judge's  ear. 

2  To  walk  as  children  of  the  day, 
To  mark  the  precepts  holy  light 

To  wage  the  warfare,  watch  and  pray. 
Shew  who  are  pleasing  in  his  sight. 

3  Not  words  alone  it  cost  the  Lord, 
To  purchase  pardon  for  his  own  ; 
Nor  with  a  soul,  by  grace  restor'd 
Return  the  Saviour's  words  alone. 

4  With  golden  bells,  the  priestly  vest  (2) 
And  rich  pomegranates  border'd  round3 
The  need  of  holiness  express'd, 

And  call  for  fruit  as  well  as  sound. 

5  Easy,  indeed  it  were  to  reach 
A  mansion  in  the  courts  above, 

If  swelling  words  and  fluent  speech 
Might  serve,  instead  of  faith  and  love. 

6  But  none  shall  gain  the  blissful  place, 
Or  God's  unclouded  glory  see  ; 

(1)  2  Kings  x.  16.  (2)  ExodUs^xviii.  32, 

Dd 


314  CAUTIONS.  Bk.  III. 

Who  talks  of  free  and  sov'reign  grace, 
Unless  that  grace  has  made  him  free. 

LXXII.  (c)  Abuse  of  the  Gospel. 

1  rpOO  many,  Lord,  abuse  thy  grace, 

J_     In  this  licentious  day  ; 
And  while  they  boast  they  see  thy  face, 
They  turn  their  own  away, 

2  Thy  book  displays  a  gracious  light 

That  can  the  blind  restore  ; 
But  these  are  dazzled  by  the  sight, 
And  blinded  still  the  more. 

3  The  pardon  such  presume  upon, 

They  do  not  beg,  but  steal ; 
And  when  they  plead  it  at  thy  throne, 
Oh,  where's  the  Spirit's  seal  ? 

4  "Was  it  for  this,  ye  lawless  tribe, 

The  dear  Redeemer  bled  ! 
Is  this  the  grace  the  saints  imbibe 
From  Christ  the  living  head  ? 

5  Ah  Lord,  we  know  thy  chosen  few 

Are  fed  with  heav'nly  fare  ; 
But  these  the  wretched  husks  they  chew 

Proclaim  them  what  they  are. 
<3  The  liberty  our  hearts  implore 

Is  not  to  live  in  sin; 
But  still  to  wait  at  wisdom's  door, 

Till  mercy  calls  us  in. 

LXXIII.  (c)  The  narrow  Way. 

1   "\  It  THAT  thousands  never  knew  the  road  ! 
V  V     What  thousands  hate  it  when  'tis 
known  ? 
None  but  the  chosen  tribes  of  God, 
Will  seek  or  choose  it  for  their  own. 


Hy.  74.  CAUTIONS.  315 

2  A  thousand  ways  in  ruin  end, 
One  only  leads  to  joys  on  high  ; 
By  that  my  willing  steps  ascend, 
Pleas'd  with  a  journey  to  the  sky. 

3  No  more  I  ask  or  hope  to  find, 
Delight  or  happiness  below  ; 
Sorrow  may  well  possess  the  mind 

That  feeds  where  thorns  and  thistles  grow. 

4  The  joy  that  fades  is  not  for  me, 
I  seek  immortal  joys  above  ; 
There,  glory  without  end,  shall  be 
The  bright  reward  of  faith  and  !over 

5'  Cleave  to  the  world  ye  sordid  worms, 
Contented  lick  your  native  dust ; 
But  God  shall  fight,  with  all  his  storms, 
Against  the  idol  of  your  trust. 

LXXIV.  (c)  Dependence. 

i       nr^O  keep  the  lamp  alive 

jL   •  With  oil  we  fill  the  bowl ; 
5Tis  water  makes  the  willow  thrive, 
And  grace  that  feeds  the  soul. 
%      The  Lord's  unsparing  hand 
Supplies  the  living  stream  ; 
It  is  not  at  our  own  command, 
But  still  deriv'd  from  him. 

3  Beware  of  Peter's  word  (l) 
Nor  confidently  say, 

"  I  never  will  deny  thee,  Lord," 
But  grant  I  never  may. 

4  Man's  wisdom  is  to  seek 
His  strength  in  God  alone  ; 

And  e'en  an  angel  would  be  weakj 
Who  trusted  in  his  own. 

(1)  Matt.  xvi.  33-, 


316  CAUTIONS.  Bk.  IH 

5  Retreat  beneath  his  wings, 
And  in  his  grace  confide  ; 

This  more  exalts  the  King  of  kings  (l) 
Than  all  your  works  beside. 

6  In  Jesus  is  our  store, 
Grace  issues  from  his  throne ; 

Whosoever  says,  u  I  want  no  more," 
Confesses  he  has  none. 

LXXV.    (c)  Not  of  Works. 

1  /^  RACE,  triumphant  in  the  throne, 
vJT    Scorns  a  rival,  reigns  alone  ! 
Come  and  bow  beneath  her  sway, 
Cast  your  idol  works  away  : 

Works  of  man,  when  made  his  plea, 
Never  shall  accepted  be  ; 
Fruits  of  pride  (vain-glorious  worm) 
Are  the  best  he  can  perform. 

2  Self,  the  god  his  soul  adores, 
Influences  all  his  pow'rs  ; 
Jesus  is  a  slighted  name, 
Self-advancement  all  his  aim  : 

But  when  God  the  judge  shall  come, 
To  pronounce  the  final  doom ; 
When  for  rocks  and  hills  to  hide, 
All  his  works  and  all  his  pride. 

3  Still  the  boasting  heart  replies, 
What  the  worthy  and  the  wise, 
Friends  to  temperance  and  peace, 
Have  not  these  a  righteousness  I 
Banish  ev'ry  vain  pretence 
Built  on  human  excellence  ; 
Perish  every  thing  in  man, 
But  the  grace  that  never  can. 

(1)  John  vi.  29. 


Hy.  re.  cautions.  at? 

LXXVI.    Sins  Deceit. 

1  O  IN,  when  view'd  by  scripture  light, 
O    Is  a  horrid,  hateful  sight  j 

But  when  seen  in  Satan's  glass, 
Then  it  was  a  pleasing  face, 

2  When  the  gospel  trumpet  sounds, 
When  1  think  how  grace  abounds, 
When  I  feel  sweet  peace  within, 
Then  I'd  rather  die  than  sin. 

3  When  the  cross  I  view  by  faith,. 
Sin  is  madness,  poison,  death  ; 
Tempt  me  not,  'tis  all  in  vain, 
Sure  I  ne'er  can  yield  again. 

4  Satan  for  a  while  debarr'd, 
When  he  finds  me  off  my  guard5 
Puts  his  glass  before  my  eyes, 
Quickly  other  thoughts  arise. 

5  What  before  excited  fears, 
Rather  pleasing  now  appears  j 
If  a  sin,  it  seems  so  small, 
Or,  perhaps,  no  sin  at  all. 

6  Often  thus,  through  sin's  deceit, 
Grief,  and  shame,  and  loss,  I  meet ; 
Like  a  fish,  my  soul  mistook, 

Saw  the  bait,  but  not  the  hook. 

7  O  my  Lord,  what  shall  I  say  ; 
How  can  I  presume  to  pray  ? 
Not  a  word  have  I  to  plead, 
Sins,  like  mine,  are  black  indeed  ! 

$  Made,  by  past  experience,  wise, 
Let  me  learn  thy  word  to  prize; 
Taught  by  what  I've  felt  before3 
Let  me  Satan's  glass  abhor. 
D  d  2 


318  CAUTIONS.  Bx.  III. 

LXXVII.    Are  there  few  that  shall  be  saved? 

1  "pv  ESTRUCTION's  dangerous  road 

_L/    What  multitudes  pursue  ! 
While  that  which  leads  the  soul  to  God, 
Is  known  or  sought  by  few. 

2  Believers  enter  in 

By  Christ  the  living  gate  ; 
But  they  who  will  not  leave  their  sin, 
Complain  it  is  too  strait. 

3  If  self  must  be  deny'd, 
And  sin  forsaken  quite; 

They  rather  choose  the  way  that's  wide, 
And  strive  to  think  it  right. 

4  Encompass'd  by  a  throng, 
On  numbers  they  depend  ; 

So  many  surely  can't  be  wrong, 
And  miss  a  happy  end. 

5  But  numbers  are  no  mark 
That  men  will  right  be  found  ; 

A  itw  were  sav'd  in  Noah's  ark  (1) 

For  many  millions  drown'd. 
§       Obey  the  gospel  call, 

And  enter  while  you  may; 
The  flock  of  Christ  is  always  small  (2), 

And  none  are  safe  but  they. 
7       Lord,  open  sinners'  eyes, 

Their  awful  state  to  see, 
And  make  them,  ere  the  storm  arise, 

To  thee  for  safety  flee. 

LXXVIII.     The  Sluggard. 

1    n^HE  wishes  that  the  sluggard  frames  (3) 
A.     Of  course  must  fruitless  prove  ; 

(1)  1  Pet.  ill.  20         (2)  Luke  xii.  22. 
(3)  Prow  vi.  10.  and  xxiv.  30.  and  xxii.  13.  and  xx.  41. 


Hy.  79.  CAPTIONS.  b$ 

"With  folded  arms  he  stands  and  dreams, 
But  has  no  heart  to  move. 

2  His  fields  from  others  may  be  known, 

The  fence  is  broken  through ; 
The  ground  with  weeds  is  overgrown, 
And  no  good  crop  in  view. 

3  No  hardship  he,  or  toil,  can  bear, 

No  difficulty  meet ; 
He  wastes  his  hours  at  home,  for  fea? 
Of  lions  in  the  street. 

4  What  wonder  then  if  sloth  and  sleeps 

Distress  and  famine  bring  ! 
Can  he  in  harvest  hope  to  reap, 
Who  will  not  sow  in  spring? 

5  'Tis  often  thus,  in  soul  concerns, 

We  gospel-sluggards  see; 
Who  if  a  wish  would  serve  their  turns, 
Might  true  believers  be. 

6  But  when  the  preacher  bids  them  watch, 

And  seek,  and  strive,  and  pray  (l)  ; 
At  ev'ry  poor  excuse  they  catch, 
A  lion  in  the  way  ! 

7  To  use  the  means  of  grace  how  loth! 

We  call  thim  still  in  vain  ; 
They  yield  to  their  beloved  sloth, 
And  fold  their  arms  again. 

8  Dear  Saviour,  let  thy  pow'r  appear, 

The  outward  call  to  aid  ; 
These  drowsy  souls  can  only  hear 
The  voice  that  wakes  the  dead. 

LXXIX.  Not  in  Word,  but  in  Power, 

1   T  *T  OW  soon  the  Saviour's  gracious  call, 
XI  Disarm'd  the  rage  of  bloody  Saul  (2)5 

(1)  1  Cor.  ix.  24.  Luke  xiii,  24,        (2)  Acts  ix,  6, 


329  CAUTIONS.  Bk.  III. 

Jesus,  the  knowledge  of  thy  name, 
Changes  the  lion  to  a  lamb  ! 
3  Zaccheus,  when  he  knew  the  Lord  (l), 
What  he  had  gain'd  by  wrong,  restor'd 
And  of  the  wealth  he  priz'd  before, 
He  gave  the  half  to  feed  the  poor. 

3  The  woman  who  so  vile  had  been  (2), 
When  brought  to  weep  o'er  pardon'd  sin, 
Was  from  her  evil  ways  estrang'd, 

And  shew'd  that  grace  her  heart  had  chang'd* 

4  And  can  we  think  the  pow'r  of  grace 
Is  lost,  by  change  of  time  and  place  ? 
Then  it  was  mighty,  nil  allow, 

And  is  it  but-a  notion  now  .? 
fr  Can  they  whom  pride  and  passion  sway, 
Who  Mammon  and  the  world  obey, 
In  envy  or  contention  live, 
Presume  that  they  indeed  believe  t 

6  True  faith  unites  to  Christ  the  root, 
By  him  producing  holy  fruit ; 

And  they  who  no  such  fruit  can  show. 
Still  on  the  stock  of  nature  grow. 

7  Lord,  let  thy  word  effectual  prove 
To  work  in  us  obedient  lov~  ! 

And  may  each  one  who  hears  it,  dread 
A  name  to  live,  and  yet  be  dead  (3)* 

SIMILAR  HYMNS. 

Book  I.    Hymn    8,  20,    85,   87,  91,  104,  125* 

139,  141. 
Book  II.   Hymn  34,  49,  86,  91,  99. 

(1)  Luke  xix.  8.         (2)  Luke  iii.  47. 
(3)  Rev.  iii.  1. 


Hy.  80.  PRAISE.  321 

VII.  PRAISE. 

LXXX.  (c)  Praise  for  Faith. 

1  f°\&  all  the  gifts  thine  hand  bestows, 
\J  Thou  giver  of  all  good  ! 

Not  heav'n  itself  a  richer  knows, 
Than  my  Redeemer's  blood. 

2  Faith  too,  the  blood  receiving  grace, 

From  the  same  hand  we  gain  ; 
Else  sweetly,  as  it  suits  our  case, 
That  gift  had  been  in  vain. 

3  Till  thou  thy  teaching  pow'r  apply, 

Our  hearts  refuse  to  see, 
And  weak,  as  a  distemper'd  eye, 
Shut  out  the  view  of  thee. 
4*  Blind  to  the  merits  of  thy  Son, 
What  mis'ry  we  endure  ! 
Yet  fly  that  hand,  from  which  alone, 
We  could  expect  a  cure. 
5  We  praise  thee,  and  would  praise  thee  mor$, 
To  thee  our  all  we  owe  ; 
The  precious  Saviour,  and  the  pow'r, 
That  makes  him  precious  too. 

'  "LXXXI.   (c)  Grace  and  providence. 

1  \  LMIGHTY   King!    whose  wond'roiifl 
A  hand  ! 

Supports  the  weight  of  sea  and  land  $ 
Whose  grace  is  such  a  boundless  store, 
No  heart  shall  break  that  sighs  for  more. 

2  Thy  providence  supplies  my  food, 
And  'tis  thy  blessing  makes  it  good, 
My  soul  is  nourish'd  by  thy  word, 
Let  soul  and  body  praise  the  Lord. 


322  PRAISE.  Bk.  III. 

3  My  streams  of  outward  comfort  came 
From  him  who  built  this  earthly  frame  ; 
"What  e'er  I  want  his  bounty  gives, 

By  whom  my  soul  for  ever  lives. 

4  Either  his  hand  preserves  from  pain, 
Or,  if  1  feel  it,  heals  again  ; 

From  Satan's  malice  shields  my  breast, 
Or  over-rules  it  for  the  best. 

5  Forgive  the  song  that  falls  so  low, 
Beneath  the  gratitude  I  owe  ! 

It  means  thy  praise,  however  poor, 
An  angel's  song  can  do  no  more. 

LXXXII.  Praise  for  redeeming  Love* 

1    "       ET  us  love,  and  sing",  and  wonder^ 
1  J  Let  us  praise  the  Saviour's  name  ! 
He  has  hush'd  the  law's  loud  thunder, 
He  has  quench'd  mount  Sinai's  flame  : 
He  has  wash'd  us  with  his  blood, 
He  has  brought  us  nigh  to  God. 
5  Let  us  love  the  Lord  who  bought  us, 
Pity'd  us  when  enemies  : 
Call'd  us  by  his  grace  and  taught  usf 
Gave  us  ears,  and  gave  us  eyes  : 
He  has  wash'd  us  with  his  blood, 
He  presents  our  souls  to  God. 
§  Let  us  sing  though  fierce  temptations 
Threaten  hard  to  bear  us  down  ! 
For  the  Lord,  our  strong  salvation  (t), 
Holds  in  view  the  conquVor's  crown  : 
He  who  wash'd  us  with  his  blood, 
Soon  will  bring  us  home  to  God. 
4  Let  us  wonder,  grace  and  justice, 
Join  and  point  to  mercy's  store  | 

1)  Rev.  U.  If. 


Hy.  83.  PRAISE.  323 

When  through  grace  in  Christ  our  trust  is, 
Justice  smiles,  and  asks  no  more. 

He  who  wash'd  us  with  his  blood. 

Has  secur'cLour  way  to  God. 
3  Let  us  praise,  and  join  the  chorus 
Of  the  saints,  enthron'd  on  high ; 
Here  they  trusted  him  before  us, 
Now  their  praises  fill  the  sky  (1)  : 

"  Thou  hast  wash'd  us  with  thy  blood, 

Thou  art  worthy,  Lamb  of  God  !" 
6  Hark  !  the  name  of  Jesus,  sounded 
Loud,  from  golden  harps  above  ! 
Lord,  we  blush,  and  are  confounded, 
Faint  our  praises,  cold  our  love  ! 

Wash  our  souls  and  songs  with  blood, 

For  by  thee  we  come  to  God. 

LXXXIII.  (c)     I  will  praise  the  LORD  at  all 

times. 

1   TICT INTER  has  a  joy  for  me, 

V  V     While  the  Saviour's  charms  I  read 
Lowly  meek,  from  blemish  free, 
In  the  snow-drop's  pensive  head. 
■2  Spring  returns,  and  brings  along 
Life  invigorating  suns  : 
Hark  !  the  turtle's  plaintive  song, 
Seems  to  speak  his  dying  groans  ! 

3  Summer  has  a  thousand  charms, 
All  expressive  of  his  worth ; 

'Tis  his  sun  that  lights  and  warms, 
His  the  air  that  cools  the  earth. 

4  Wliat,  has  autumn  left  to  say 
Nothing  of  a  Saviour's  grace  ? 

(1)  Rev.  v,  9, 


324  PRAISE.  Bk.  in. 

Yes,  the  beams  of  milder  day 
Tell  me  of  his  smiling  face. 

5  Light  appears  with  early  dawn 
While  the  sun  makes  haste  to  rise, 
See  his  bleeding  beauties  drawn 
On  the  blushes  of  the  skies. 

6  Ev'ning  with  a  silent  pace, 
Slowly  moving  in  the  wTest, 
Shews  an  emblem  of  his  grace, 
Points  to  an  eternal  rest. 


LXXXIY.     Perseverance. 

1  T)  EJOICE,  believer  in  the  Lord, 
XV    Who  makes  your  cause  his  own ; 
The  hope  that's  built  upon  his  word, 

Can  ne'er  be  overthrown. 

2  Though  many  foes  beset  your  road, 

And  feeble  is  your  arm  ; 
Your  life  is  hid  with  Christ  in  God  (1), 
Beyond  the  reach  of  harm. 

3  Weak  as  you  are,  you  shall  not  faint, 

Or  fainting  shall  not  die  ; 
Jesus,  the  strength  of  ev'ry  saint  (2) 
Will  aid  you  from  on  high. 

4  Though  sometimes  unperceiv'd  by  sense, 

Faith  sees  him  always  near ; 
A  Guide,  a  Glory,  a  Defence, 
Then  what  have  you  to  fear  ? 

5  As  surely  as  he  overcame, 

And  triumph'd  once  for  you  ; 
So  surely,  you  that  love  his  name, 
Shall  triumph  in  him  too. 

(1)  Col.  «i-  3.  (2)  Isa.  xii.26- 


Hy.  85,  86.  PRAISE.  325 

LXXXV.     Salvation. 

1  Q  ALVATION  !  what  a  glorious  plan  ■; 
O    How  suited  to  our  need  ! 

The  grace  that  raises  fallen  man, 
Is  wonderful  indeed  ! 

2  'Twas  wisdom  form'd  the  vast  design, 

To  ransom  us  when  lost ; 
And  love's  unfathomable  mine 
Provided  all  the  cost. 

3  Strict  Justice,  with  approving  look, 

The  holy  covenant  seal'd  ; 
And  Truth,  and  Power,  Undertook 
The  whole  should  be  fulfili'd. 

4  Truth,  Wisdom,  Justice,  Pow'r,  and  love. 

In  all  their  glory,  shone  ; 
When  Jesus  left  the  courts  above, 

And  dy'd  to  save  his  own. 
3  Truth,  Wisdom,  Justice,  Pow'r,  and  Love, 

Are  equally  display'd  ; 
Now  Jesus  reigns  enthron'd  above 

Our  Advocate  and  Head* 
6  Now  sin  appears  deserviug  death, ' 

Most  hateful  and  abhorr'd  ; 
And  yet  the  sinner  lives  by  faith 

And  dares  approach  the  Lord. 

LXXXYI.     Reigning  Grace* 

1    "XT  OW  may  the  Lord  reveal  his  face, 
jlN     And  teach  our  stammering  tongues 
To  make  his  sov'reign,  reigning  grace  (1), 

The  subject  of  our  songs  ! 
No  sweeter  subject  can  invite 

A  sinner's  hesrt  to  sing  ; 

<i)  Rom.  v.  21. 
E    E 


326  PRAISE.  Bk.  Ill 

Or  more  display  the  glorious  right 

Of  our  exalted  King. 
2  This  subject  fills  the  starry  plains, 

With  wonder,  joy,  and  love  ; 
And  furnishes  the  noblest  strains 

For  all  the  harps  above  : 
While  the  redeem'd  in  praise  combine 

To  grace  upon  the  throne   (l), 
Angels  in  solemn  chorus  join, 

And  make  the  theme  their  own. 
Grace  reigns  to  pardon  crimson  sins, 

To  melt  the  hardest  hearts  ; 
And  from  the  work  it  once  begins  (2), 

It  never  more  departs. 
The  world  and  Satan  strive  in  vain, 

Against  the  chosen  few  (3)  : 
Secur'd  by  grace's  conqu'ring  reign, 

They  all  shall  conquer  too. 
A  Grace  tills  the  soil,  and  sows  the  seeds, 

Provides  the  sun  and  rain  ; 
Till  from  the  tender  blade  proceeds, 

The  ripen' d  harvest  grain. 
'Twas  grace  that  call'd  our  souls  at  first 

By  grace  thus  far  we're  come, 
And  grace  will  help  us  through  the  worst, 

And  lead  us  safely  home. 
5  Lord,  when  this  changing  life  is  past, 

If  we  may  see  thy  face  ; 
How  shall  we  praise,  and  love,  at  last, 

And  sing  the  reign  of  grace  (4)  ! 
Yet  let  us  aim  while  here  below 

Thy  mercy  to  display.; 
And  own,  at  least  the  debt  we  owe, 

Although  we  cannot  pay. 

(1)  Rev.  v.  9.  12.     (2)  Phil.  i.  6.       (3)  Rom.  viii.  35-— 39. 
(4)  Ps.  cxv.  1. 


Hy.  87.  PRAISE.  32T 

LXXXVII.    Praise  to  the  Redeemer. 

1  TTjREPARE  a  thankful  song 

_L      To  the  Redeemer's  name  ! 
His  praises  should  employ  each  tongue., 
And  ev'ry  heart  inflame  ! 

2  He  laid  his  glory  by, 

And  dreadful  pains  endur'd  : 
That  rebels,  such  as  you  and  I, 
From  wrath  might  be  secur'd. 

3  Upon  the  cross  he  dy'd, 
Our  debt  of  sin  to  pay, 

The  blood  and  water  from  his  side 
Wash  guilt  and  filth  away. 

4  And  now  he  pleading  stands 
For  us  before  the  throne  ; 

And  answers  all  the  law's  demands,- 
With  what  himself  hath  done. 

5  He  sees  us,  willing  slaves 
To  sin,  and  Satan's  pow'r  : 

But  with  an  outstretch'd  arm  he  saves, 
In  his  appointed  hour. 

6  The  Holy  Ghost  he  sends, 
Our  stubborn  souls  to  move  ; 

To  make  his  enemies  his  friends. 

And  conquer  them  by  love. 
7-         The  love  of  sin  departs, 

The  life  of  grace  takes  place, 
Soon  as  his  voice  invites  our  hearts 

To  rise  and  seek  his  face. 

8  The  world  and  Saltan  rage 
But  he  their  pow'r  controls  ; 

His  wisdom,  love,  and  truth,  engage 
Protection  for  our  souls. 

9  Though  press'd  we  will  not  yield. 
But  shall  prevail  at  length, 


328  PRAISE.  Bk.  III. 

For  Jesus  is  our  sun  and  shield, 
Our  righteousness  and  strength. 
10       Assur'd  that  Christ  our  king, 
Will  put  our  foes  to  flight ; 

We  on  the  field  of  battle  sing, 
And  triumph,  while  we  fight. 

LXXXVIII.  Man  by  Nature,  Grace,  and  Glory. 

1  T    ORD,  what  is  man  ?  Etremes  how  wide 
1  a  In  this  mysterious  nature  join  ! 

The  flesh,  to  worms  and  dust  ally'd 
The  soul,  immortal  and  divine  ! 

2  Divine  at  first,  a  holy  flame 
Kindled  by  the  Almighty's  breath  j 
Till  stain'd  by  sin  it  soon  became 
The  seat  of  darkness,  strife,  and  death. 

3  But  Jesus,  Oh  !  amazing  grace  ! 
Assum'd  our  nature  as  his  own, 
Obey'd  and  suffer'd  in  our  place, 
Then  took  it  with  him  to  his  throne. 

4.  Now  what  is  man  when  grace  reveals 
The  virtue  of  a  Saviour's  blood; 
Again  a  life  divine  he  feels, 
Despises  earth,  and  walks  with  God. 

5  And  what  in  yonder  realms  above, 
Is  ransom'd  man  ordain'd  to  be  ? 
With  honour,  holiness,  and  love, 
No  seraph  more  adorn'd  than  he. 

6  Nearest  the  throne,  and  first  in  song, 
Man  shall  his  hallelujahs  raise : 

While  wondYing  angels  round  him  throng, 
And  swell  the  chorus  of  his  praise* 


Hr.  89,  90,  91.  SHORT  HYMN'S.  329 

SIMILAR  HYMNS. 

Book  I.  Hymn  57,  58,  59,  79,  80. 
Book  II.  Hymn  37,  38,  39,  41,  42. 

VIII.  SHORT  HYMNS. 
LXXXIX.  BEFORE  SERMON. 

1  /"N  ONFIRM  the  hope  thy  word  allows, 
V^/    Behold  us  waiting  to  be  fed  ; 
Bless  the  provisions  of  thy  house, 

And  satisfy  thy  poor  with  bread  : 
Drawn  by  thine  invitation,  Lord, 
Athirst  and  hungry  we  are  come, 
Now  from  the  fulness  of  thy  word, 
Feast  us,  and  send  us  thankful  home, 

HYMN  XC, 

i   V[OW,  Lord  inspire  the  preacher's 
1  l  heart,  . 

And  teach  his  tongue  to  speak  $ 
Food  to  the  hungry  soul  impart : 

And  cordials  to  the  weak. 

2  Furnish  us  all  with  light  and  pow'rs 

To  walk  in  wisdom's  ways; 
So  shall  the  benefit  be  ours, 
And  thou  shalt  have  the  praise. 

HYMN  XCI. 

1   ^HY  promise,  Lord,  and  thy  command^ 
JL     Have  brought  us  here  to-day  ; 
And  now  we  humbly  waiting  stand 
To  hear  what  thou  wilt  say  (1), 

|1)  Psalm  lxxxy.  $> 

s  e  2 


330  SHORT  HYMNS.        Bk.  III. 

2  Meet  us,  we  pray,  with  words  of  peace, 
All  fill  our  hearts  with  love  ; 
That  from  our  follies  we  may  cease, 
And  henceforth  faithiul  prove. 

HYMN  XC1I. 

1  TYUNGRY,  and  faint,  and  poor, 
JL  JL   Behold  us  Lord,  again 

Asse  mbled  at  thy  mercy's  door, 
Thy  bounty  to  obtain. 

2  Thy  word  invites  us  nigh, 
Or  we  must  starve  indeed  ; 

For  we  no  money  have  to  buy, 
No  righteousness  to  plead. 

3  The  food  our  spirits  want 
Thy  hand  alone  can  give  ; 

Oh,  hear  the  pray'r  of  faith,  and  grant 
That  we  may  eat,  and  live. 

XCIII.  Psalm  cvi.  4,  5. 

i    T)  EMEMBER  us,  we  pray  thee,  Lord, 
JLV    With  those  who  love  thy  gracious 

name  ; 
And  to  our  souls  that  good  afford, 
Thy  promise  has  prepar'd  for  them. 
2  To  us  thy  great  salvation  show, 
Give  us  a  taste  of  love  divine  ; 
That  we  thy  people's  joy  may  know, 
And  in  their  holy  triumph  join. 


*N 


HYMN  XCIV. 

OT  to  Sinai's  dreadful  blaze  (1), 
But  to  Zion's  throne  of  grace, 

(1)  Hebrews  xii.  18.  22. 


Hy.  95.  SHOUT  HYMNS.  331 

By  a  way  mark'd  out  with  blood, 
Sinners  now  approach  to  God. 

2  Not  to  hear  the  fiery  law, 
But  with  humble  joy  to  draw 
Water  by  that  well  supply'd  (l), 
Jesus  open'd  when  he  dy'd. 

3  Lord,  there  are  no  streams  but  thine. 
Can  assuage  a  thirst  like  mine  ; 

'Tis  a  thirst  thyself  did'st  give, 
Let  me  therefore  drink  and  live. 

HYMN  XCY. 

I 

1  ^|FTEN  thy  public  means  of  grace, 
V^/   Thy  thirsty  people's  watring  place 

The  archer's  have  beset  (2)  ; 
Attack'd  them  in  thy  house  of  pray'r, 
To  prison  dragg'd,  or  to  the  bar, 

When  thus  together  met. 

2  But  we  from  such  assaults  are  freed, 
Can  pray,  and  sing,  and  hear  and  read, 

And  meet  and  part  in  peace  : 
May  we  our  privileges  prize, 
In  their  improvement  make  us  wise, 

And  bless  us  with  increase. 

3  Unless  thy  presence  thou  afford, 
Unless  thy  blessing  clothe  the  word, 

In  vain  our  liberty  ! 
What  would  it  profit  to  maintain 
A  name  for  life,  should  we  remain 

Formal  and  dead  so  thee  ? 

(1)  Isaiah  xii.  3,  (2)  Judges  v.  «. 


332  SHORT  HYMNS.        Bk.  IIL 

AFTER  SERMON. 

XCVI.  Deut.  xxxiii.  26—29. 

1  T  "X  TlTII  Israel's  God  who  can  compare? 

V  V      Or  who,  like  Israel,  happy  are  ! 
O  people  saved  by  the  Lord, 
He  is  thy  shield  and  great  reward  ! 

2  Upheld  by  everlasting  arms,v 

Thou  art  secur'd  from  foes  a\d  harms  ; 
In  vain  their  plots,  and  false  their  boasts, 
Our  refuge  is  the  Lord  of  Hosts. 

XCVII.   Habakkul \\\.  17,28. 

1    T  ESUS  is  mine  !  I'm  now  prepar'd 

J    To  meet  with  what  I  thought  most  hard  ; 

Yes,  let  the  winds  of  trouble  blow 

And  comforts  melt  away  like  snow : 

No  blasted  trees,  or  failing  crops, 

Can  hinder  my  eternal  hopes  : 

Tho'  creatures  change,  the  Lord's  the  same, 

Then  let  me  triumph  in  his  name. 

HYMN  XCVIII. 

1  T  "RTE  seek  a  rest  beyond  the  skies, 

>  V     In  everlasting  day  ; 
Through  floods  and  flames  the  passage  lies. 
But  Jesus  guards  the  way. 

2  The  swelling  flood,  and  raging  flame, 
-    Hear  and  obey  his  word  ; 

Then  let  us  triumph  in  his  name, 
Our  Saviour  is  the  Lord. 


Hy.  99,  100.     SHORT  HYMNS.  323 

XCIX.  DeuU  xxxii.  9,  10. 

1  rnp HE  saints  Emmanuel's  portion  are, 

X     Redeem'd  by   price,  reclaim'd  by 
pow'r  ; 
His  special  choice  and  tender  care, 
Owns  them,  and  guards  them  ev'ry  hour. 

2  He  finds  them  in  a  barren  land 
Beset  with  sins,  and  fears,  and  woes  ; 
He  leads  and  guides  them  by  his  hand, 
And  bears  them  safe  from  all  their  foes. 

C.   Hebrews  xiii.  20,  24. 

1  VT  OW  may  He  who  from  the  dead 
jJH     Brought  the  Shepherd  of  the  sheep^ 
Jesus  Christ,  our  King  and  head, 

All  our  souls  in  safety  keep  ! 

2  May  he  teach  us  to  fulfil 
What  is  pleasing  in  his  sight; 
Perfect  us  in  all  his  will, 

And  preserve  us  day  and  night ! 

3  To  that  dear  Redeemer's  praise, 
Who  the  cov'nant  seal'd  with  blood, 
Let  our  hearts  and  voices  raise 
Loud  thanksgivings  to  our  God. 

HYMN  CI.  2  Corinthians,  xiii.  14. 

I    "^/j"AY  the  grace  of  Christ  our  Saviour 
xVJL   And  the  Father's  boundless  love, 
With  the  holy  Spirit's  favour, 
Rest  upon  us  from  above  ! 
Thus  may  we  abide  in  union 
With  each  other,  and  the  Lord ; 
And  possess,  in  sweet  communion^ 
Joys  which  earth  cannot  afford* 


334  SHORT  HYMNS.  Bk.  Ill 

HYMN  GIL 

1    rT^HE  peace  which  God  alone  reveals, 
JL     And  by  his  word  of  grace  imparts, 
Which  only  the  believer  feels  (l), 
Direct  and  keep,  and  cheer  your  hearts  : 
And  may  the  only  Three  in  One, 
The  Father,  Word,  and  Comforter, 
Pour  an  abundant  blessing  down 
On  every  soul  assembled  here! 

HYMN  CHI. 

1  ^"^O  thee  our  wants  are  known, 

JL     From  thee  are  all  our  pow'rs  ; 

Accept  what  is  thine  own, 

And  pardon  what  is  ours  : 
Our  praises,  Lord,  and  pray'rs  receive, 
And  to  thy  word  a  blessing  give. 

2  Oh  grant  that  each  of  us 
Now  met  before  thee  here, 
May  meet  together  thus, 

When  thou  and  thine  appear  ! 
And  follow  thee  to  heav'n  our  home, 
E'n  so  Amen,  Lord  Jesus  come.  (1) 

GLORIA  P  ATRIA. 
HYMN  CIY. 

1  HpHE  Father  we  adore, 

JL     And  everlasting  Son, 
Th-  Spirit  of  his  love  and  pow'r, 
The  glorious  Three  in  One. 

2  At  the  creation's  binh 

This  song  was  sung  on  high, 

(1)  Phil.  iv.  7.  (2;  Rev.  xxii.  2fc 


Hy.  105— lor.  SHORT  HYMNS.  335 

Shall  sound,  through  ev'ry  age  on  earth, 
And  through  eternity. 

HYMN  CV. 

1  TH  ATHER  of  angels  and  of  men, 
Jl      Saviour,  who  hast  us  bought, 
Spirit,  by  whom  we're  born  again, 

And  sanctify'd  and  taught ! 

2  Thy  glory,  holy  Three  in  One, 

Thy  people's  song  shall  be, 
Long  as  the  wheels  of  time  shall  run, 
And  to  eternity. 

HYMN  CYI. 

1  f^  LORY  to  God  the  Father's  name, 
vJ   To  Jesus  who  for  sinners  dy'd  ; 

The  holy  Spirit  claims  the  same, 
By  whom  our  souls  are  sanctify'd. 

2  Thy  praise  was  sung  when  time  began 
By  angels  through  the  starry  spheres  j 
And  shall,  as  now,  be  sung  by  man 
Through  vast  eternity's  long  years. 


HYMN  CVIL 


!Y 


E  saints  on  earth  ascribe  with  heav'ns 
high  host, 
Glory  and  honour  to  the  One  in  three  ; 
To  God  the  Father,  Son,  and  Holy 

Ghost, 
As  was,  and  is,  and  evermore  shall  be. 


A  TABLE  TO  THE  THIRD  BOOK, 


According  to  the  Order  and  Subject  of  the  Hymns. 


I.    Solemn    Address 

TO    SINNERS. 

Hymn. 
Expostulation  1 

Alarm  2 

We  were  once   as  you 

are 

Prepare  to  meet  God  4 
Invitation  5 


II.  Seeking,pleading 

and  Hoping. 
The  burdened  sinner  6 
Behold  I  am  vile  7 
The  shining  light  8 
Encouragement  9 

The  waiting  soul       10 
The  effort  11,12 

Seeking  the  beloved  13 
Rest  for  weary  souls  14 


III,  CONFLICT. 

Light  shining  out  of 

darkness  13 

"Welcome  cross  16 

Afflictions  sanctified 

by  the  word  17 

Temptation  18 

Looking  upwards  in 

a  storm  19 

Valley  of  the  shadow 

of  death  20 


III.  CONFLICT. 

Hymn. 
The  storm  hushed  21 
Help  in  time  of  need  22 
Peace  after  a  storm  23 
Mourning  &  longing  24 
Rejoice  the  soul  of 

thy  servant  25 
Self-acquaintance  26 
Bitter  and  sweet  27 
Prayer  for  patience  28 
Submission  29 

Why  should  I  com- 
plain ?  30 
Return,  O  Lord, 

how  long  !  SI 

Cast  down,  but  not 

destroyed  32 

The  benighted  trav- 
eller 33 
The  prisoner              34 
Perplexity  relieved   35 
Prayer  answered  by 

crosses  36 

I  will  trust  and  not 

be  afraid  37 

Questions  to  unbe- 
lief 38 
Great  effects  by  small 

means  39 


A  TABLE. 


237 


III.  CONFLICT. 

j  Hymn 

Why  art  thou  cast 

down  ?  40 

The  way  of  access  41 
The  pilgrim's  song   42 

IT.  COMFORT. 

Faith  a  new  sense  43 

The  happy  change  44 

Retirement  45 

Jesus  my  all  46 

The  hidden  life  47 
Joy  and  peace  in 

believing  48 

True  pleasure  49 

The  Christian  50 

Lively  hope,  &c.  51 

Confidence  52 

Peace  restored  53 
Hear  what  he  has 

done  54 

Freedom  from  care  55 
Humiliation  &  praise  56 

For  the  poor  57 

Home  in  view  58 

V.  DEDICATION 
and  SURRENDER. 

Old  things  passed 

away  59 

Power  of  grace  60 
My  soul  thirsteth  for 

God  61 

Love  constraining  to 

obedience  62 

Heart  healed  and 

changed  by  mercy  63 
Hatred  of  sin  64 

F 


V.  DEDICATION 

AND  SURRENDER. 

Hymn. 
The  child  65 

True  happiness  66 

The  happy  debtor      67 

VI.  CAUTIONS. 
The  new  convert       68 
True  and  false  com- 
forts 69 
True  and  false  zeal  70 
Living  and  dead  faith 71 
Abuse  of  the  gospel  72 
The  narrow  way        73 
Dependence  74 
Not  of  works             75 
Sin's  deceit  76 
Are  there  few  saved  77 
The  sluggard  78 
Not  in  word,  but  in 
power  79 
'  VII.  PRAISE. 
Praise  for  faith         80 
Grace  and  provi- 
dence                      81 
Praise  for  redeeming 

love  82 

I  will  praise  the  Lord 

at  all  times  83 

Perseverance  84 

Salvation  85 

Reigning  grace  86 

Redeemer's  praise     87 
Man  by  nature,  grace 
and  glory  88 

VIII.  SHORT  HYMNS. 
Before  Sermon  89 — 95. 
After  Sermon  96 — 103 
Gloria  Patria  104—107 


338  CONTENTS. 

Page 

A    Believer  free  from  care  127 

Afflictions  do  not  come  alone  139 

Afflictions,  though  they  seem  severe  108 

A  garden  contemplation  suits  238 

A  glance  from  heav'n  with  sweet  effect  228 

A  shelter  from  the  rain  or  wind  239 

Ah  what  can  I  do  255 

Although  on  massy  pillars  built  214 

Alas  !  Elisha's  servant  cry'd  46 

Alas  !  by  nature  how  deprav'd  180 

A  lion  though  by  nature  wild  236 

Almighty  King  !  whose  wond'rous  hand  325 

Amazing  grace  !  (how  sweet  the  sound)  47 

Approach,  my  soul,  the  mercy  seat  261 

As  birds  their  infant  brood  protect  75 

As  needles  point  towards  the  pole  234 

As  once  for  Jonah,  so  the  Lord  78 

As  parched  in  the  barren  sands  71 

As  some  tall  rock  amidst  the  waves  124 

As  the  serpent  rais'd  my  Moses  65 

As  when  the  weary  traveler  gains  306 

As  the  sun's  enliv'ning  eye  217 

A  word  from  Jesus  calms  the  sea  90 

A  worldling  spent  each  day  109 

BEFORE  Elisha's  gate  44 

Begone  unbelief  283 

Behold  the  throne  of  grace  ?  38 

Beneath  the  tyrant  Satan's  yoke  1 75 

Beside  the  gospel  pool  116 

Bestow,  dear  Lord,  upon  our  youth  160 

Be  still  my  heart !  these  anxious  cares  287 

But  r  indeed,  the  waters  are  20 

Bicak  winter  is  subdu'd  at  length  181 

Blinded  in  youth  by  Satan's  arts  243 

Breathe  from  the  gentle  south,  O  Lord  259 

.By  various  maxims,  forms,  and  rules,  141 

3y  lauh  in  Christ  I  walk  with  God  10 


CONTENTS.  339 

Page 

By  the  poor  widows'  oil  and  meal  42 

By  whom  was  David  taught  23 

Cheer  up  my  soul,  there  is  a  mercy-seat  260 

Chief  shepherd  of  thy  chosen  sheep  199 

Confirm  the  hope  thy  word  allows  329 

Constrained  by  their  Lord  to  embark  118 

Could  the  creatures  help  or  ease  us  97 

Courage  my  soul !  behold  the  prize  221 

Come   my  soul  my  suit  prepare  37 

DARKNESS  overspreads  us  here  131- 
Day  of  judgment,  day  of  wonders  !  222 
Dear  Lord,  accept  a  sinful  heart  273 
Destruction's  dangerous  road  318 
Does  it  not  grief  and  wonder  move,  165 
Does  the  gospel-word  proclaim  263 

ELIJAH'S  example  declares  41 

I    Elisha,  struck  with  grief  and  awe  170 

Ensnar'd  too  long,  my  heart  has  been  173- 

Ere  God  had  built  the  mountains  57 

Encourag'd  by  thy  word  84 

FAR  from  the  world,  O  Lord,  I  flee.      •  291 

Father,  forgive  (the  Saviour  said)  113 

Father  of  angels  and  of  men  335 

Fervent  persevering  pray'rs  126 

Fierce  passions  discompose  the  mind  135 

Fix  my  heart  and  eyes  on  thine  !  309 

Forest  beasts,  that  live  by  prey  280 

For  mercies  countless  as  the  sands  55 

From  pole  to  pole  let  others  roam  73 

From  Sheba  a  distant  report  39 

From  Egypt  lately  freed  289 

GLADNESS  was  spread  thro'  Israel's 

s     host  199 

Glorious  things  of  thee  are  spoken  64 

Glory  to  God,  the  Father's  name  335 

God  gives  his  mercies  to  be  spent  60 
God  with  one  piercing  glance  looks  thro'     223 


340  CONTENTS. 


x 


God  moves  in  a  mysterious  way  264? 

God  of  my  life  to  thee  I  call  267 

Grace  triumphant  in  the  throne  316 

Gracious  Lord,  our  children  see  163 

HAPPY  are  they,  to  whom  the  Lord     1 96 

Hark,  my  soul,  it  is  the  Lord  122 

Hark!  how  time's  wide  sounding  bell  157 

Happy  the  birth  where  grace  presides  304 

Heal  us  Emanuel,  here  we  are  20 

Hear  what  God  the  Lord  hath  spoken  70 

Here  at  Bethesda's  pool,  the  poor  117 

Hear  what  the  Lord  the  great  Amen  143 

He  who  on  earth,  as  man  was  known  63 

His  master  taken  from  his  head  219 

Holy  Lord  God  !  I  love  thy  truth  307 

Honour  and  happiness  unite  295 

Honey  though  the  bee  prepares  61 

How  blest  thy  creature  is,  O  God  290 

How  David  when  by  sin  deceiv'd  35 

How  hurtful  was  the  choice  of  Lot  11 

How  kind  the  good  Samaritan  103 

How  lost  was  my  condition  67 

How  soon  the  Saviour's  gracious  call  319 

How  sweet  the  name  of  Jesus  sounds  62 

How  tedious  and  tasteless  the  hours  51 

How  welcome  to  the  saints  when  press'd  194 

Hungry,  and  faint,  and  poor  330 

How  blest  the  righteous  are  26 

I  AM,  saith  Christ,  your  glorious  head  120 

I  ask'd  the  Lord  that  I  might  grow  282 

If  for  a  time  the  air  be  calm  231 

If  Paul  in  Caesar's  court  must  stand  129 

If  Solomon  for  wisdom  pray'd  37 

If  the  Lord  our  leader  be  15 

If  to  Jesus  for  relief  285 

Incarnate  God  !  the  soul  that  knows  52 

In  evil  long  I  took  delight  204 


CONTENTS.  341 

Page 

In  mercy,  not  in  wrath,  rebuke  51 

In  themselves  as  weak  as  worms  210 

In  vain  my  fancy  strives  to  paint  218 

I  thirst  but  not  as  once  I  did  305 

I  was  a  grovelling  creature  once  296 

I  will  praise  thee  ev'ry  day  63 

I  would  but  cannot  sing  130 

Jesus  Christ  the  Lord's  anointed  81 

Jcsus^to  what  didst  thou  submit  115 

Jesus  who  bought  us  with  his  blood  172 

Jesus  whose  blood  so  freely  stream'd  28 

Jesus,  where'er  thy  people   meet  193 

Jesus  is  mine  !   I'm  now  prepar'd  332 

John  in  a  vision  saw  the  day  224 

Joy  is  a  fruit  that  will  not  grow  48 

KINDLE,  Saviour,  in  my  heart  274 
Kindred  in  Christ  for  his  dear  sake      216 

LEGION  was  my  name  by  nature  96 

Let  hearts  and  tongues  unite  191 

Let  me  dwell  on  Golgotha  206 

Let  us  adore  the  grace  that  seeks  172 

Let  us  love,  and  sing,  and  wonder  326 

Let  worldly  minds  the  world  pursue  307 

Lord,  my  soul  with  pleasure  springs  294 

Lord,  thou  hast  won,  at  length  I  yield  125 

Lord,  who  hast  suffcr'd  all  tor  me  275 
Lord,  what  is  man  !  extremes  how  wide      328 

MANNA  to  Israel  well  supply 'd  21 
Martha  her  love  and  joy  express'd     104 

Mary  to  her  Saviour's  tomb  121 

May  the  grace  of  Christ  our  Saviour  333 

Mercy,  O  thou  Son  of  David  !  99 

Mv  barns  are  full,  my  stores  increase  106 

My  God!  how  perfect  are  thy  ways  71 

Mv  God  !  till  I  receive  thy  stroke  72 

My  harp  untun'd,  and  laid  aside  101 

My  song  shall  bless  the  Lord  of  all  187 
T  f  2 .. 


342  CONTENTS. 

Page 

My  soul  once  had  its  plenteous  years  17 

My  soul,  this  curious  house  of  clay  220 

My  soul  is  sad,  and  much  dismay'd  268 

My  soul  is  beset  258 

My  former  hopes  are  dead  257 

VTAY,  I  cannot  let  thee  go  16 

.lN     No  strength  of  nature  can  suffice  306 

No  words  can  declare  251 

Not  to  Sinai's  dreadful  blaze  330 

Now  gracious  Lord  thine  arm  reveal  159 

Now  let  us  join  with  hearts  and  tongues  188 

Now  may  the  Lord  reveal  his  face  325 

Now  Lord,  inspire  the  preacher's  heart  329 

Now  may  he  who  from  the  dead  333 

Now  may  fervent  prayer's  arise  161 

OF  all  the  gifts  thine  hand  bestows  322 

Often  thy  public  means  of  grace  331 

Oft  as  the  bell,  with  solemn  toll  219 

Oft  as  the  leper's  case  I  read  86 

Oft  in  vain  the  voice  of  truth  158 

O  God  whose  favourable  eye  315 

O  David's  Son,  and  David's  Lord  171 

O  Lord  our  languid  souls  inspire  192 

Once  a  woman  silent  stood  162 

O  Lord,  how  vile  am  I  256 

O  Lord,  my  best  desires  fulfil  276 

O  thou  at  whose  almighty  word  169 

O  happy  they  who  know  the  Lord  195 

O  speak  that  gracious  word  again  298 

Oh  !  for  a  closer  walk  with  God  9 

Oh,  may  the  pow'r  which  melts  the  rock  21 1 

O  how  I  love  thy  holy  word  265 

Once  perishing  in  blood  I  lay  74 

Once,  while  we  aim'd  at  Zion's  songs  197 

On  the  sameflow'r  we  oftrn  see  234 

One  awful  word  which  Jesus  spoke  101 

One  glance  of  thine,  eternal  Lord  288 


CONTENTS.  34-3 

Page 

Oppress'd  with  unbelief  and  sin  133 

Our  Lord  who  knows  full  well  110 

One  there  is  above  all  others  58 

PENSIVE,  doubting,  fearful  heart  69 

Physician  of  my  sin  sick  soul  87 

Pleasing  spring  again  is  here  182 

Poor  sinners  !  little  do  they  think  77 

Poor,  weak,  and  worthless  though  I  am  36 

Pray'r  an  answer  will  obtain  91 

Preacher's  may  from  Ezekiel's  case  166 

Precious  Bible  !  what  a  treasure  209 

Prepare  a  thankful  song  327 

Poor  Esau  repented  too  late  14 


Q 


UIET,  Lord,  my  froward  heart  308 

REFRESHED  by  the  bread  and  wine    206 

R-joice  believer,  in  the  Lord  325 

Remember  us,  we  pray  thee,  Lord  330 

Return  to  bless  my  waiting  eyes  278 

SAFELY  through  another  week  189 

Salvation  !  what  a  glorious  plan  325- 

Sav'd  by  blood,  I  live  to  tell  298 

Saviour  shine,  and  cheer  my  soul  49 

Saviour,  visit  thy  plantation  199 

See  Aaron,  God's  anointed  priest  25 

See  !  another  year  is  gone  155 

See  !  how  rude  winter's  icy  hand  179 

See  !  the  corn  again  in  ear  187 

See  the  gloomy  gath'ring  cloud  213 

See,  the  world  for  youth  prepares  242 

Shall  men  pretend  to  pleasure  251 
Sight,  hearing,  feeling,  taste,  and  smell,       290 

Simon,  beware  !  the  Saviour  said  112 

Sin,  when  view'd  by  scripture  light  317 

Sinner,  art  thou  still  secure  252 

Sinners  hear  the  Saviour's  call  253 

Sin  euslav'd  me  many  years  306 


344  CONTENTS. 

Page 

Sin  has  undone  our  wretched  race  163 

Sometimes  a  light  surprises  299 

Son  of  God  !   thy  people's  shield  79 

Sovereign  grace  has  power  alone  114 

Stop,  poor  sinner,  stop  and  think  250 

Strange  and  mysterious  is  my  life  134 

Supported  by  the   word  76 

Sweet  was  the  time  when  first  I  felt  48 

Sweeter  sounds  than  music  knows  187 

TEN  thousand  talents  once  I  ow'd  310 

That  was  a  wonder-working  word  225 

That  man  no  guard  or  weapons  need  53 

The  church  a  garden  is  107 

The  God  who  once  to  Israel  spoke  168 

The  Lord,  our  salvation  and  light  190 

The  Spirit  breathes  upon  the  word  208 

The  gathering  clouds,  with  aspect  dark  210 

The  moon  in  silver  glory  shone  229 

The  moon  has  but  a  borrow'd  light  230 

The  ice  and  snow  we  lately  saw  233 

The  subtle  spider  often  weaves  235 

The  Saviour  calls  his  people  sheep  237 

The  water  stood  like  walls  of  brass  240 

The  billows  swell,  the  winds  are  high  266 

The  Saviour  hides  his  face  271 

The  new-born  child  of  gospel-grace  311 

The  Lord  receives  his  highest  praise  313 

The  wishes  that  the  sluggard  frames  322 

The  saints  Emmanuel's  portion  are  333 

The  peace  which  God  alone  reveals  334 

The  Father  we  adore  334 

The  evils  that  beset  our  path          .  59 

The  kine  unguided  went  33 

The  castle  of  the  human  heart  105 
The  grass  and  flowers  which  clothe  the  field  1 85 

The  book  of  nature  open  lies  226 

The  Lord  will  happiness  divine  69 

The  Lord  proclaims  his  grace  abroad  75 


CONTENTS,  34s 

Page 

The  lion  that  on  Samson  roar'd  29 

The  manna,  favor'd  Israel's  meat  22 

The  message  first  to  Smyrna  sent  141 

The  prophet's  sons  in  time  of  old  45 

The  Saviour  !  what  a  noble  flame  203 

The  saints  should  never  be  dismay'd  12 

The  Shunamite  oppress'd  with  grief  164 

The  signs  which  God  to  Gibeon  gave  29 

The  word  of  Christ,  our  Lord  138 

There  is  a  fountain  filPd  with  blood  82 

This  is  the  feast  of  heav'nly  wine  101 

Though  Jericho  pleasantly  stood  43 

Though  in  the  outward  church  below  89 
Though  cloudy  skies,  and  northern  blasts     180 

Though  the  morn  may  be  serene  183 

Though  small  the  drops  of  falling  rain  232 

Though  sore  beset  with  guilt  and  fear  279 

Thus  saith  the  Lord  to  Ephesus  140 

Thus  saith  the  holy  One,  and  true  143 

Thy  mansion  is  the  Christian's  heart  100 

Thy  message,  by  the  preacher,  seal  177 

Thy  promise,  Lord,  and  thy-command  329 

Time,  with  an  unweary'd  hand  154 

Time,  by  moments,  steals  away  156 

'Tis  a  point  I  long  to  know  123 

'Tis  my  happiness  below,  265 

'Tis  past — the  dreadful  stormy  night  268 

To  tell  the  Saviour  all  my  wants  293 

To  thee  our  wants  are  known  334 

To  those  who  know  the  Lord,  I  speak  262 

To  keep  the  lamp  alive  ,315 

Too  many,  Lord,  abuse  thy  grace  214 

UNBELIEF  the  soul  dismays  286 

Uncertain  how  the  way  to  find  281 

Unless  the  Lord  had  been  my  stay  269 

WEARIED  by  day  with  toils  &  cares  215 

"We  seek  a  rest  beyond  the  skies  332 

What  a  mournful  life  is  mine  56 


346  CONTENTS. 

Page 

What  thousands  never  knew  the  road  318 

"What  contradictions  meet  176 

"When  sinners  utter  boasting  words  83 

When  the  poor  pris'ner  through  a  grate  280 

When  descending  from  the  sky  93 

What  think  you  of  Christ  ?   is  the  test  92 

What  various  hindrances  we  meet  209 

When  Adam  fell  he  quickly  lost  8 

When  Hannah  press'd  with  grief  30 

When  Jesus  claims  the  sinner's  heart  88 

When  Joseph  his  brethren  beheld  18 

When  Israel  by  divine  command  205 

When  Israel's  tribes  were  parch'd,  &c.  132 

When  Israel  heard  the  fiery  law  24 

When  Israel  was  from  Egypt  freed  54 

When  Joshua,  by  God's  command  27 

When  Peter  boasted,  soon  he  fell  94 

When  the  disciples  cross'd  the  lake  98 

When  the  apostles  wonders  wrought  128 

When  any  turn  from  Z ion's  way  119 

When  the  belov'd  disciple  took  144 

When  Peter  through  the  tedious  night  16£ 

When  Moses  wav'd  his  mystic  rod  167 

When  Paul  was  parted  from  his  friends  178 

When  on  the  cross,  rny  Lord  I  see  202 

W^hen  the  sun,  with  cheerful  beams  227 

When  a  black  o'erspreading  cloud  ibid. 

When  slumber  seals  our  weary  eyes  241 

When  darkness  long  has  veil'd  my  mind  270 

When  my  pray'rs  are  a  burden  and  task  272 
When  my  Saviour,  my  Shepherd  is  near     277 

When  the  wounded  spirit  hears  300 

When  Hagar  found  her  bottle  spent  302 

When  first  to  make  my  heart  his  own  32 

When  first  my  soul  enlisted  33 

While  Joshua  led  the  armed  bands  212 

While  1  liv'd  without  the  Lord  299 

Why  should  I  fear  the  darkest  hour  292 


CONTENTS.  U7 

Page 

With  Israel's  God  who  can  compare?  332 

With  Satan,  my  accuser  near  80 

Winter  has  a  joy  for  me  327 

Write  to  Sardis,  saith  the  Lord  142 

YE  saints  on  earth  ascribe,  &c.  33$ 

Ye  sons  of  earth  prepare  the  plough  9% 

Yes  !  since  God.  himself  has  said  it  29? 

ZACCHEUS  climb'd  the  tree  1 1 t 

Zeal  is  that  pure  and  heav'nly  flame  Slg 

Zion!  the  city  of  our  God  174, 


